Written By Carita
June 2, 2020, 6:39 p.m.(5/26/1013 AR)
Relationship Note on Evander
A more caring, generous soul there never was. Keenly inquisitive & smart, Darkwater and I are so fortunate to have this Kennex treasure.
Written By Carita
April 28, 2020, 10:47 a.m.(3/12/1013 AR)
I have to say that I genuinely enjoyed myself, planning, and making sure the Taste of Arx: Thrax Ward was something special for everyone. I was grateful that Princess Sabella asked me to host again this year; it was a great honor. The bonus of showing off the wonders of Thrax certainly didn't hurt either.
I thought someone would have thrown up during the eating contest! Not that it was a goal. Not even a little. Followed by drunken sledding on the large turtle shells from Escuma (thanks again Marquise Turo) was so hilarious I hope we try something like this next year. Watching the Queen push Sister Rosalie down the hill, only to find herself being pulled down on her backside, was worth remembering, especially because Prince Niklas bowled into her to cause it. The group watching collectively held their breath until the Queen was laughing, and then no one could think of anything more hilarious.
Of course, watching Prince Niklas wave his arms around like a windmill to 'limber up' beforehand and that causing Princess Sabella to laugh hard enough, I thought she might start hiccflisjafuping. Then, of course, the Queen's revenge in nearly plowing right into the Prince at the bottom of the hill and watching the famous playwright get a face full of snow? I swear, I couldn't paint a picture worthy of remembering that part of the night. Don't worry, patron mine; I would certainly not depict that sort of image accurately. You'd be wearing pants in my painting for sure.
I thought someone would have thrown up during the eating contest! Not that it was a goal. Not even a little. Followed by drunken sledding on the large turtle shells from Escuma (thanks again Marquise Turo) was so hilarious I hope we try something like this next year. Watching the Queen push Sister Rosalie down the hill, only to find herself being pulled down on her backside, was worth remembering, especially because Prince Niklas bowled into her to cause it. The group watching collectively held their breath until the Queen was laughing, and then no one could think of anything more hilarious.
Of course, watching Prince Niklas wave his arms around like a windmill to 'limber up' beforehand and that causing Princess Sabella to laugh hard enough, I thought she might start hiccflisjafuping. Then, of course, the Queen's revenge in nearly plowing right into the Prince at the bottom of the hill and watching the famous playwright get a face full of snow? I swear, I couldn't paint a picture worthy of remembering that part of the night. Don't worry, patron mine; I would certainly not depict that sort of image accurately. You'd be wearing pants in my painting for sure.
Written By Carita
March 4, 2020, 7:01 p.m.(11/14/1012 AR)
I was sitting in my library in the Darkwater manse when a sudden memory hit me that made me laugh. I can't remember if Nerissa was three or four, but she came to me one day and asked, in her small little girl voice, "Mother, do babies bathe in blood?" When I told her about it, now eight years old, she stared at me blankly and asked, "Well, do they?" and squinted at me suspiciously.
I wonder how I missed explaining things like this to her? It can't be all dragons and griffins, after all.
I wonder how I missed explaining things like this to her? It can't be all dragons and griffins, after all.
Written By Carita
Nov. 11, 2019, 1:16 a.m.(3/5/1012 AR)
There are moments when walking through the city becomes racing, and when racing becomes snowballs thrown, and when snowballs thrown becomes a piggyback ride because ... were you trying to kill me with your snowballs or have fun?!
Written By Carita
July 8, 2019, 3:37 p.m.(6/6/1011 AR)
Yesterday evening, in the Shrine of the Thirteenth, I was overcome with emotion, listening to a fellow worshiper and new acquaintance, that I can safely call just a little closer to friend. I hadn't expected it, this new mystery friend of mine, but then when does anyone expect friendships to bloom?
If it's often for you, then you should write a book on your techniques because I admit I'm not swayed into friendships so quickly. Those I hold dear are fiercely protected.
If it's often for you, then you should write a book on your techniques because I admit I'm not swayed into friendships so quickly. Those I hold dear are fiercely protected.
Written By Carita
June 30, 2019, 4:12 a.m.(5/17/1011 AR)
Tonight I sit in the Shrine of the Thirteenth to begin my week here for the eligibility of becoming a Disciple in the Scholars.
I thought it would be rather quiet and give me plenty of time for contemplating the reasons for doing it, or maybe even just my life's path. Instead, I happened on a few friends already sitting there and had a somewhat distracted conversation with all three of them, Lord Evander being the last to go. In the silence of everyone leaving, I let past memories wash over me. Morning teas, various chats, stolen looks, past fears, and as they did, I basked in every one of them.
I thought it would be rather quiet and give me plenty of time for contemplating the reasons for doing it, or maybe even just my life's path. Instead, I happened on a few friends already sitting there and had a somewhat distracted conversation with all three of them, Lord Evander being the last to go. In the silence of everyone leaving, I let past memories wash over me. Morning teas, various chats, stolen looks, past fears, and as they did, I basked in every one of them.
Written By Carita
June 18, 2019, 2:38 p.m.(4/22/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Venta
Former Darkwater Countess
Written By Carita
April 22, 2019, 4:40 a.m.(12/19/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Luca
It has been far too long since I've written and I didn't think I had the energy to write this, but I dug down deep. Grief has a way of sapping the energy you have and so it is with a heavy heart I write about my patron, Prince Luca Grayson. It took me by surprise, his death. I know he was ever active, though his deeds were always a mystery to me, and even now the reasons he died are frustratingly bizarre. We didn't get to talk as often as I'd have liked, but I did get the pleasure of waking him up some mornings, passed out in his favorite bushes throughout the city.
We didn't get enough time. And I selfishly miss the small additions he gave my life as my patron and dear friend. Who will send me a cigarillo of hash while I sit through economic meetings? Who will wholeheartedly care about my well-being when I go off on a trip that could get me harmed, so much so he sent his own armor to keep me safe?
He spoke so well of the people he truly trusted and loved, and he was very well loved in return.
In honor of my daring, heroic patron I am going to have a garden made up in his honor. A lovely place for travelers through the city, with only the most fluffy and comfortable bushes to pass out in. The Prince Luca Grayson Memorial Park for peaceful napping. If anyone would like to help, I welcome those who loved our Prince Luca.
We didn't get enough time. And I selfishly miss the small additions he gave my life as my patron and dear friend. Who will send me a cigarillo of hash while I sit through economic meetings? Who will wholeheartedly care about my well-being when I go off on a trip that could get me harmed, so much so he sent his own armor to keep me safe?
He spoke so well of the people he truly trusted and loved, and he was very well loved in return.
In honor of my daring, heroic patron I am going to have a garden made up in his honor. A lovely place for travelers through the city, with only the most fluffy and comfortable bushes to pass out in. The Prince Luca Grayson Memorial Park for peaceful napping. If anyone would like to help, I welcome those who loved our Prince Luca.
Written By Carita
March 24, 2019, 1:34 a.m.(10/17/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Luca
No griffons in the gardens, not even under the benches.
No griffons in the Darkwater courtyard.
No griffons in the small cottage on the Darkwater grounds.
Definitely no griffons in the fireplace, though the soot stains that got on Nerissa new dress will be a pain for my assistant to remove.
No griffons under chairs.
No griffons up the stairs.
None under Nerissa's bed or in her armoire.
Thanks to my patron, Prince Luca, it's all we do anymore. Griffon searching and questions about griffons.
What do they eat? How do they play? Are they angry all the time? Do they have hair I can braid? Why didn't Prince Luca let me braid his hair?
Her questions are getting more complicated now and 'because I said so' doesn't work as well as it used to for an answer she won't accept. I suspect I'll have to hunt down a book about griffon facts for her.
As much as I would love to grouse about her running all over the place, valiantly and bravely looking for griffons, it warms my heart to hear her talk so fondly of Prince Luca and their time together.
No griffons in the Darkwater courtyard.
No griffons in the small cottage on the Darkwater grounds.
Definitely no griffons in the fireplace, though the soot stains that got on Nerissa new dress will be a pain for my assistant to remove.
No griffons under chairs.
No griffons up the stairs.
None under Nerissa's bed or in her armoire.
Thanks to my patron, Prince Luca, it's all we do anymore. Griffon searching and questions about griffons.
What do they eat? How do they play? Are they angry all the time? Do they have hair I can braid? Why didn't Prince Luca let me braid his hair?
Her questions are getting more complicated now and 'because I said so' doesn't work as well as it used to for an answer she won't accept. I suspect I'll have to hunt down a book about griffon facts for her.
As much as I would love to grouse about her running all over the place, valiantly and bravely looking for griffons, it warms my heart to hear her talk so fondly of Prince Luca and their time together.
Written By Carita
Nov. 19, 2018, 12:05 a.m.(1/8/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Jordan
Sir Jordan Ober
While I did not get a chance to know him as well as many seem to have, he was an incredible help with the rebuilding of Darkwater. He had such wonderful ideas for the future and a keen mind for his duties to Ashford. I only wish I'd written his ideas down. It goes to show that one should never take for granted the advice being given. Saying 'later' and expecting that time when you're ready for it is foolish and I regret now being so careless
He was a forgiving soul, even when an emotionally-wrought female slapped him across the face for practically no reason at all. He very admirably stared at her then dipped his head politely to me, to the others standing there, and walked away without a word. Then I witnessed him accepting her apology with a smirk of amusement.
What I'm saying is that his death made me rethink some topics I'd previously taken for granted. He'll be missed.
While I did not get a chance to know him as well as many seem to have, he was an incredible help with the rebuilding of Darkwater. He had such wonderful ideas for the future and a keen mind for his duties to Ashford. I only wish I'd written his ideas down. It goes to show that one should never take for granted the advice being given. Saying 'later' and expecting that time when you're ready for it is foolish and I regret now being so careless
He was a forgiving soul, even when an emotionally-wrought female slapped him across the face for practically no reason at all. He very admirably stared at her then dipped his head politely to me, to the others standing there, and walked away without a word. Then I witnessed him accepting her apology with a smirk of amusement.
What I'm saying is that his death made me rethink some topics I'd previously taken for granted. He'll be missed.
Written By Carita
Oct. 21, 2018, 1:21 a.m.(11/3/1009 AR)
I have had so many letters flow into Darkwater Reach that I've had a horrible time keeping up with them all. If you have written and I haven't responded yet, I will most assuredly be getting back to you soon.
Know that I am honored by the generally sweet and welcoming way I've been greeted and that I am making it a point to write to everyone personally and thank them.
Know that I am honored by the generally sweet and welcoming way I've been greeted and that I am making it a point to write to everyone personally and thank them.
Written By Carita
Aug. 20, 2018, 10:05 a.m.(6/6/1009 AR)
A scientific person does not aim at an immediate result. They do not expect that their advanced ideals will be readily taken up. Their work is like that of a planter - for the future. Their duty to lay the foundation of those who are to come and point the way.
And so, Darkwater's foundation has begun thanks to the people that invested with us. I am more than elated to be part of this process, to hear of the success we've accomplished together, and to already have letters from people that want to invest in the next step of our adventure.
I know I've already sent out my thank you letters, but I'd just like to thank you all again on behalf of Darkwater and myself. I lift my glass of rum in your general direction to cheers to our first success.
And so, Darkwater's foundation has begun thanks to the people that invested with us. I am more than elated to be part of this process, to hear of the success we've accomplished together, and to already have letters from people that want to invest in the next step of our adventure.
I know I've already sent out my thank you letters, but I'd just like to thank you all again on behalf of Darkwater and myself. I lift my glass of rum in your general direction to cheers to our first success.
Written By Carita
Aug. 20, 2018, 9:46 a.m.(6/6/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Barric
I didn't know you as well as some, but what I did know of you was that you loved Princess Coraline more than you could ever express -- though you tried, sometimes poorly. Even though we didn't have a long period of friendship it took very, very little to see that love you had for my dear friend.
While I didn't always understand your actions, your core seemed to me to be solidly good, but there was an inner turmoil that seemed to keep you unsettled and then you were gone without a word on your own personal journey. I'm sorry we never got to reconnect when you returned, I would have liked that. In the end, you served as you talked about, for the Crown and Compact.
While I didn't always understand your actions, your core seemed to me to be solidly good, but there was an inner turmoil that seemed to keep you unsettled and then you were gone without a word on your own personal journey. I'm sorry we never got to reconnect when you returned, I would have liked that. In the end, you served as you talked about, for the Crown and Compact.
Written By Carita
June 30, 2018, 10:24 a.m.(2/10/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Coraline
We really met on the Tour of Thrax, and though we didn't get a chance to talk much then, the after-effects, I believe, of having spent that time together led to seeking one another out.
I had not thought such an easy friendship would bloom, but after getting to know Princess Coraline, I wonder, how could any person NOT completely adore her? Very sweet, very kind, and warmly genuine. Defender of friendships; no one can talk poorly about those she cares about. Witty and smart, with a hint of mischief, and quick to laugh and enjoy those around her.
I am truly honored to call her friend.
I'm so excited for you and can't wait to hear about your new adventures to come, at least the ones you can share, as you've now earned your Knighthood!
Congratulations, sweet mermaid. That things will done knee-deep in seawater seems so very fitting.
I had not thought such an easy friendship would bloom, but after getting to know Princess Coraline, I wonder, how could any person NOT completely adore her? Very sweet, very kind, and warmly genuine. Defender of friendships; no one can talk poorly about those she cares about. Witty and smart, with a hint of mischief, and quick to laugh and enjoy those around her.
I am truly honored to call her friend.
I'm so excited for you and can't wait to hear about your new adventures to come, at least the ones you can share, as you've now earned your Knighthood!
Congratulations, sweet mermaid. That things will done knee-deep in seawater seems so very fitting.
Written By Carita
June 16, 2018, 7:22 a.m.(1/9/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Elara
...Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there; I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sun on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night...
... and another soft star is added to the sky. I didn't know Lady Elara Kennex well, but the acts of kind selflessness that caused her death creates an ache in my stomach for the loss of her. My heart goes out to her family and friends, those that knew her love first hand, for the loss must be great.
I am not there; I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sun on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night...
... and another soft star is added to the sky. I didn't know Lady Elara Kennex well, but the acts of kind selflessness that caused her death creates an ache in my stomach for the loss of her. My heart goes out to her family and friends, those that knew her love first hand, for the loss must be great.
Written By Carita
June 16, 2018, 6:44 a.m.(1/9/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Victus
To mention His Highness, Prince Victus as being a stoic man is like mentioning the sky is blue, or that the grass is green, that water is wet, but it warms my heart to watch him with his little girl. On the boat, her little hand in his as they walk together, there is real love that may not normally be seen so readily. I should like to think, had I known my father well, and when something brought tears to my eyes, he too would have knelt down and gently put his hands on my shoulders, and should I continue to cry, pull me close and tell me to stop fucking crying. Alright? Alright.
Written By Carita
June 11, 2018, 7:31 a.m.(12/19/1008 AR)
My Dearest Darling friend,
Please forgive the serious lack of writing, I have been remiss in my writing and for that, I am truly sorry. So, for you, to make it up to you, I include something a little more flowery and saccharine.
here is the deepest secret nobody knows
(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life; which grows
higher than the soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that’s keeping the stars apart
I carry your heart
Please forgive the serious lack of writing, I have been remiss in my writing and for that, I am truly sorry. So, for you, to make it up to you, I include something a little more flowery and saccharine.
here is the deepest secret nobody knows
(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life; which grows
higher than the soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that’s keeping the stars apart
I carry your heart
Written By Carita
June 8, 2018, 6:33 p.m.(12/9/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Sorrel
A pleasurable afternoon wrapped in a warm coral concoction, of beauty, and ginger tea; was the paradoxically steely cool Princess Sorrel. Business and babies, warmth and cool resolve, compassion and strict standards. I haven't wanted to wrap someone up in a protective bubble and also stand behind them as they fight for me at the same time before. A wonder of a woman, to be sure, and someone to safely remain on the /good/ side of if you're wise.
Written By Carita
May 10, 2018, 6:31 p.m.(9/19/1008 AR)
It's an utter joy to see my former proteges doing so well for themselves.
My heart is warmed through and I wish them nothing but continued success. In the spirit of continuing, this clearly means that I need to seek out others that are wishing for similar opportunities. Perhaps another champion. Perhaps another social adept. Perhaps an artisan. Perhaps a would-be courtier. Perhaps a lower-ranked member of the peerage.
So far, I have reached out to one that I need to schedule a sit-down meeting with, but I have been so busy that I have not even considered it yet! I have not forgotten you, prospective protege. I promise.
My heart is warmed through and I wish them nothing but continued success. In the spirit of continuing, this clearly means that I need to seek out others that are wishing for similar opportunities. Perhaps another champion. Perhaps another social adept. Perhaps an artisan. Perhaps a would-be courtier. Perhaps a lower-ranked member of the peerage.
So far, I have reached out to one that I need to schedule a sit-down meeting with, but I have been so busy that I have not even considered it yet! I have not forgotten you, prospective protege. I promise.
Written By Carita
May 7, 2018, 11:03 p.m.(9/13/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Reigna
Allow me:
Oh, Arx, you never fail to amuse me. Oh, my darlings, with the amount of scandal you bring to the Whites that are simply too much -- all it does is bring rubies to my cheeks. The color is terribly flattering I'm told (Or, at least, so this Scholar humors me.) Are we properly scandalized by wicked behavior? As though it hasn't all happened all before -- as though it likely will never happen again.
[ Notice that I do not personally criticize the nature of oaths and the serious matter of oath-breaking. Never do the words make a single appearance in my original entry. Only now. When I say 'as though it hasn't all happened all before' I mean: as though the actions of a member of the peerage haven't become the focus of the city's attention in the Whites. It has happened. It will likely happen again. We always act as though we are all terribly put out by choices that are becoming more and more commonplace as the days go by. ]
Oh, rest easy, it will happen again. It was mere years ago when I dissolved my own marriage, when I was allowed (for the grace of the gods go I) to keep my title. Mere years ago that there were whispers of worse that were wagging the tongues of Thrax.
[ This is entirely self-deprecating. The satire doesn't need to be explained because it wasn't for you, my lady. It's entirely for me. For my Journal. ]
To be under the scrutiny of the peerage is -- irritating. But, a irritating grain of sand within an oyster can create the most beautiful pearls over time. That's all it takes. Time.
[ This is the only sincere part of this entire entry. The irritation of being the focus of critique and public opinion never lasts. ]
Oh, Arx, you never fail to amuse me. Oh, my darlings, with the amount of scandal you bring to the Whites that are simply too much -- all it does is bring rubies to my cheeks. The color is terribly flattering I'm told (Or, at least, so this Scholar humors me.) Are we properly scandalized by wicked behavior? As though it hasn't all happened all before -- as though it likely will never happen again.
[ Notice that I do not personally criticize the nature of oaths and the serious matter of oath-breaking. Never do the words make a single appearance in my original entry. Only now. When I say 'as though it hasn't all happened all before' I mean: as though the actions of a member of the peerage haven't become the focus of the city's attention in the Whites. It has happened. It will likely happen again. We always act as though we are all terribly put out by choices that are becoming more and more commonplace as the days go by. ]
Oh, rest easy, it will happen again. It was mere years ago when I dissolved my own marriage, when I was allowed (for the grace of the gods go I) to keep my title. Mere years ago that there were whispers of worse that were wagging the tongues of Thrax.
[ This is entirely self-deprecating. The satire doesn't need to be explained because it wasn't for you, my lady. It's entirely for me. For my Journal. ]
To be under the scrutiny of the peerage is -- irritating. But, a irritating grain of sand within an oyster can create the most beautiful pearls over time. That's all it takes. Time.
[ This is the only sincere part of this entire entry. The irritation of being the focus of critique and public opinion never lasts. ]
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.