Written By Cassandra
Nov. 22, 2021, 11:32 a.m.(8/12/1016 AR)
If I am fortunate enough that my Whites survive for so long, then hundreds of years from now, Scholars of their day will look upon this aged and weathered sheet and wonder among themselves as to whom Legate Cassandra Laurent was referring when she spoke in a single cryptic entry of the Armlector of Gild.
Written By Cassandra
May 2, 2021, 10:50 p.m.(5/25/1015 AR)
I don't envy those that had to make the decision on how to confront the Skal'dajan threat against Pieros. I have been there, I have been the one to make those calls, and it is never comfortable and never easy. Or, at the very least, it should never be that. I question the judgment of any leader who doesn't consider the lives of their soldiers to be worth consideration.
I advocated for the plan that went forward, however. I don't regret doing so, I only pray that the decision our leaders made was the one that will, ultimately, mean far less bloodshed in the south in the days to come.
I advocated for the plan that went forward, however. I don't regret doing so, I only pray that the decision our leaders made was the one that will, ultimately, mean far less bloodshed in the south in the days to come.
Written By Cassandra
April 18, 2021, 7:17 p.m.(4/25/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Ezmeralda
The Marquessa's offer is generous, but given the circumstances I think she'd prefer the Templars remain focused on the Skal'dajan threat, rather than devote more attention to her. I admit, however, that I'm often wrong about the priorities of certain members of the Peerage when it comes to seeing to the defense of the Compact versus petty political posturing.
In either case, I'm afraid we must decline. Policing her territory is the duty of Leporidae's soldiers, and not the military arm of the Faith; but it's somewhat understandable that her borders are in the poor state she describes if she's been making the mistake of assuming that's the reason for our presence in her domain.
In either case, I'm afraid we must decline. Policing her territory is the duty of Leporidae's soldiers, and not the military arm of the Faith; but it's somewhat understandable that her borders are in the poor state she describes if she's been making the mistake of assuming that's the reason for our presence in her domain.
Written By Cassandra
Sept. 17, 2020, 8:42 a.m.(1/15/1014 AR)
The question has been posted about the value of human life. Are five lives worth one life?
If you ask a member of the King's Own, they may tell you that all 100 of them are worth our ruler's life. If you ask a Knight of Solace, how many of them would say they would trade their lives for a healer? If you ask a person in love, they may tell you they would trade their life for their loved ones.
What makes one life worth more than five lives is the question that should be asked here. What makes one life worth more than another? Five? One hundred? Five thousand?
How many people laid down their lives in defense of Copper?
What do you think human life is worth? A single human life.
Is it worth yours?
If you ask a member of the King's Own, they may tell you that all 100 of them are worth our ruler's life. If you ask a Knight of Solace, how many of them would say they would trade their lives for a healer? If you ask a person in love, they may tell you they would trade their life for their loved ones.
What makes one life worth more than five lives is the question that should be asked here. What makes one life worth more than another? Five? One hundred? Five thousand?
How many people laid down their lives in defense of Copper?
What do you think human life is worth? A single human life.
Is it worth yours?
Written By Cassandra
Sept. 14, 2020, 11:39 p.m.(1/10/1014 AR)
I find myself sitting in my office and wondering -- should I make changes. I have decided that I should. Not exactly to the base of the room. I adore different suits of armor and weapons that are on display here. Oddly, it makes me feel safe, knowing I am surrounded by weapons and armor from past and present. I have placed my father's sword upon these weapons.
Which I guess begs the question of why am I not using Mercy, but instead using Chivalry's Point. Chivalry's Point was made for me. I feel a closeness to it. And it is my sword. I thought, when I first got Mercy, that I wanted to use it as my main weapon. But then I realized that using his sword... it means that I am still in his shadow. And I need to stand on my own. But I will always cherish Mercy and it holds a special place on my wall and my heart.
Back to the changes. I have asked Dame Felicia Harrow to create me a stained glass window for each of the Triad that I serve as Legate. It will require removing some of the stone of the office, so it clearly is not something to be done until the warmer weather returns, but I am excited about it.
Another thing I am excited about is replacing my hodge-podge of furniture to something more uniform. I have seen the preliminary sketches from Goodwoman Orchid Champagne and I am really looking forward to the final product. She is truly blessed by Jayus and I can't wait to show off her designs.
Which I guess begs the question of why am I not using Mercy, but instead using Chivalry's Point. Chivalry's Point was made for me. I feel a closeness to it. And it is my sword. I thought, when I first got Mercy, that I wanted to use it as my main weapon. But then I realized that using his sword... it means that I am still in his shadow. And I need to stand on my own. But I will always cherish Mercy and it holds a special place on my wall and my heart.
Back to the changes. I have asked Dame Felicia Harrow to create me a stained glass window for each of the Triad that I serve as Legate. It will require removing some of the stone of the office, so it clearly is not something to be done until the warmer weather returns, but I am excited about it.
Another thing I am excited about is replacing my hodge-podge of furniture to something more uniform. I have seen the preliminary sketches from Goodwoman Orchid Champagne and I am really looking forward to the final product. She is truly blessed by Jayus and I can't wait to show off her designs.
Written By Cassandra
Aug. 18, 2020, 7:53 a.m.(11/11/1013 AR)
In the midsts of taking Celeste's oaths yesterday, I had a visitor.
A rather large (nearly up to my knees) snapping turtle has decided to adopt me as her caretaker.
According to Dame Leola, she is named Sir Geddyorf and she is old and grumpy.
And wants to be called Sir.
But she is good at delivering messages. Not the fastest, but unique. She also has a fondness for fish soup.
A rather large (nearly up to my knees) snapping turtle has decided to adopt me as her caretaker.
According to Dame Leola, she is named Sir Geddyorf and she is old and grumpy.
And wants to be called Sir.
But she is good at delivering messages. Not the fastest, but unique. She also has a fondness for fish soup.
Written By Cassandra
Aug. 18, 2020, 7:44 a.m.(11/11/1013 AR)
I was called to the Knight Barracks on an urgent matter last night. Imagine my surprise when I saw Princess Celeste Pravus, freshly awakened and still in her night clothes.
She told Ailith and I that she was prepared to dedicate her heart and life to the Faith. I was surprised by this, but overjoyed. I know the troubles that can come of trying to decide between nobility and Faith and that release can come by giving oneself whole-heatedly to the Faith.
I administered the oaths and Celeste accepted them. I am proud to welcome Dame Celeste Pravus to the Faith and Templars.
She told Ailith and I that she was prepared to dedicate her heart and life to the Faith. I was surprised by this, but overjoyed. I know the troubles that can come of trying to decide between nobility and Faith and that release can come by giving oneself whole-heatedly to the Faith.
I administered the oaths and Celeste accepted them. I am proud to welcome Dame Celeste Pravus to the Faith and Templars.
Written By Cassandra
Aug. 17, 2020, 8:53 a.m.(11/9/1013 AR)
Would a book of recipes fall under Vellichor for the scholarly part of how a creation has changed over time?
Or would it be for Jayus, as baking and cooking could be considered an expression of art?
Something to mull over while I look over some missives and plan an event with Margerie.
Or would it be for Jayus, as baking and cooking could be considered an expression of art?
Something to mull over while I look over some missives and plan an event with Margerie.
Written By Cassandra
Aug. 14, 2020, 3:17 a.m.(11/3/1013 AR)
The Shrine of Gloria hosted a weapon's blessing ceremony tonight.
Hearing the stories of the weapons of those in attendance was inspiring and it was my honor to provide a path between wielder, weapon and Gloria.
I may hold another one in the future, but for the moment, I need to remember that I do have other duties. Other organizations that require my attention.
But it was still a good night.
Hearing the stories of the weapons of those in attendance was inspiring and it was my honor to provide a path between wielder, weapon and Gloria.
I may hold another one in the future, but for the moment, I need to remember that I do have other duties. Other organizations that require my attention.
But it was still a good night.
Written By Cassandra
Aug. 8, 2020, 4:35 p.m.(10/20/1013 AR)
Relationship Note on Margerie
For as long as I can remember, Margerie Clement nee Keaton has been part of my life. I watched her rise as a Countess and then become Baroness-Consort and she has long been one of my closest allies in my decision to become part of the Faith.
Today, I am proud to be able to give her just a mote of everything she has done for me back. I am proud to call her my protege.
Today, I am proud to be able to give her just a mote of everything she has done for me back. I am proud to call her my protege.
Written By Cassandra
Aug. 8, 2020, 1:56 p.m.(10/20/1013 AR)
I was surprised to read Prince Edain's sudden announcement to abdicate to High Lord Alis and go tilting at sand dunes to try to face the Dune Emperor. I am not sure if this was Gloria's guidance or something else. And that he did not speak of this with Princess Caelis is troubling. I have never been terribly close to the pair as our paths did not cross often in my time in Valardin and less so once I became part of the Faith.
But I can only home that Limerance can soothe the rocky road that was created. I can pray that the Triad looks over Edain on his travels. But their hands are also needed to guide the new High Lord and young Prince Samuel.
But I can only home that Limerance can soothe the rocky road that was created. I can pray that the Triad looks over Edain on his travels. But their hands are also needed to guide the new High Lord and young Prince Samuel.
Written By Cassandra
July 31, 2020, 6:20 p.m.(10/4/1013 AR)
A person's name is to him or her the sweetest and most important sound in any language.
A person's name is the greatest connection to their own identity and individuality. Some might say it is the most important word in Arvum to that person.
It is the one way we can easily get someone's attention. It is a sign of courtesy and a way of recognizing them. When someone remembers our name after meeting us, we feel respected and more important. It makes a positive and lasting impression on us. To not remember a name, especially when someone has had to repeat it several times, is to make that person feel slighted. Duels have been fought over forgotten names.
They have also been fought and punishment doled out on the misuse of names. A Prince or Princess could suddenly find themselves relieved of title if they misuse their name or title. It is dangerous that you assume if you use a name to get something that there will be no consequence.
It is discouraging and dismaying to find out that your name has been used in a way you would not approve of. It is disrespectful for someone to use your name to get something without asking your permission. Or worse, to assume that you would approve of something simply because they used your name.
Your name is precious. Protect it with all you have. Let no one besmirch or ruin it.
A person's name is the greatest connection to their own identity and individuality. Some might say it is the most important word in Arvum to that person.
It is the one way we can easily get someone's attention. It is a sign of courtesy and a way of recognizing them. When someone remembers our name after meeting us, we feel respected and more important. It makes a positive and lasting impression on us. To not remember a name, especially when someone has had to repeat it several times, is to make that person feel slighted. Duels have been fought over forgotten names.
They have also been fought and punishment doled out on the misuse of names. A Prince or Princess could suddenly find themselves relieved of title if they misuse their name or title. It is dangerous that you assume if you use a name to get something that there will be no consequence.
It is discouraging and dismaying to find out that your name has been used in a way you would not approve of. It is disrespectful for someone to use your name to get something without asking your permission. Or worse, to assume that you would approve of something simply because they used your name.
Your name is precious. Protect it with all you have. Let no one besmirch or ruin it.
Written By Cassandra
June 20, 2020, 12:22 p.m.(7/6/1013 AR)
Relationship Note on Piccola
Whoever told you that a good general has already won a battle before it begins has possibly never actually set foot on a battlefield. Speaking as someone who has led soldiers into battle, to assume a battle is already won is the territory of hubris, regardless of whatever confidence, skill, or experience one can have. Warfare can change, the climate of a battle can change, the morale of an entire can change. These and so many other factors can impact a battle that any plans beforehand may not be able to anticipate. Even the well built and laid out plans. No plan is foolproof, there is always an element of risk that entire affair can and will fall apart at the seams.
A good general will have contingencies for most of these, and while perhaps not always anticipate them, is at least acutely aware of them. They understand the flow of war better than most, but no one is perfect, and not all will expect every single change that possible. But to assume victory before the battle begins? That would seem, in my eyes, a general who does not deserve the rank of which they have been afforded. Speaking plainly, that would veer from confidence into outright arrogance. And arrogance, just as well doubt, can spell doom for any army that steps onto the field. Victory is never a sure thing, even after the battle is over. I have seen good, capable, and confident generals have to recall a retreat because their plan, solid in its foundation, preparation, and execution, dissolved in the eleventh hour due to, well, unforseen circumstances.
As for honor, well, that is an entirely different topic, regardless of how it plays into war. And this entry would be a great deal longer were I to expand upon that. Should you ever wish to discuss this, my office is open.
A good general will have contingencies for most of these, and while perhaps not always anticipate them, is at least acutely aware of them. They understand the flow of war better than most, but no one is perfect, and not all will expect every single change that possible. But to assume victory before the battle begins? That would seem, in my eyes, a general who does not deserve the rank of which they have been afforded. Speaking plainly, that would veer from confidence into outright arrogance. And arrogance, just as well doubt, can spell doom for any army that steps onto the field. Victory is never a sure thing, even after the battle is over. I have seen good, capable, and confident generals have to recall a retreat because their plan, solid in its foundation, preparation, and execution, dissolved in the eleventh hour due to, well, unforseen circumstances.
As for honor, well, that is an entirely different topic, regardless of how it plays into war. And this entry would be a great deal longer were I to expand upon that. Should you ever wish to discuss this, my office is open.
Written By Cassandra
June 7, 2020, 10:08 a.m.(6/7/1013 AR)
I visited my family recently for a gathering that was was being held in the Laurent manor garden. And I realized the reason why I went is that I was overcome with nostalgia to simply see my family.
Whenever I'm asked if the choice I so long ago is one I regret, my answer is immediately no. I have no regrets to dedicating my life to the Gods, despite whatever polite disagreement myself and my mother have over it.
Still, it was nice to just see my family together being nothing more than a family, all in the same area. I hadn't seen that in so long, perhaps not since we were all children. There are at times a connection that I feel I lack because I cannot be around as much as I would dearly wish. I know that's silly, believe me. But, I still think it.
It is times like these, I remember my father. And how much I still miss him.
Whenever I'm asked if the choice I so long ago is one I regret, my answer is immediately no. I have no regrets to dedicating my life to the Gods, despite whatever polite disagreement myself and my mother have over it.
Still, it was nice to just see my family together being nothing more than a family, all in the same area. I hadn't seen that in so long, perhaps not since we were all children. There are at times a connection that I feel I lack because I cannot be around as much as I would dearly wish. I know that's silly, believe me. But, I still think it.
It is times like these, I remember my father. And how much I still miss him.
Written By Cassandra
May 26, 2020, 10:44 a.m.(5/12/1013 AR)
A close friend of mine has told me that I don't drink enough. That maybe I would be a touch more relaxed if I did.
Sometimes, I think she has a point.
And if one more Templar knocks on my door to give a continuation of some pointless bickering, I am going to seriously consider going to the Archives to look over the guidelines for how duels operate and maybe rewriting them to limit the amount of appropriate replies.
Sometimes, I think she has a point.
And if one more Templar knocks on my door to give a continuation of some pointless bickering, I am going to seriously consider going to the Archives to look over the guidelines for how duels operate and maybe rewriting them to limit the amount of appropriate replies.
Written By Cassandra
May 22, 2020, 8:13 a.m.(5/3/1013 AR)
Relationship Note on Dio
I am not a fan of pirates.
And given my current mood, the fact that a member of the peerage feels that can display such affiliations openly and not expect pushback annoys me.
So I will say it very politely. My patience and my tolerance for annoyance has limits.
And given my current mood, the fact that a member of the peerage feels that can display such affiliations openly and not expect pushback annoys me.
So I will say it very politely. My patience and my tolerance for annoyance has limits.
Written By Cassandra
May 15, 2020, 1:06 p.m.(4/18/1013 AR)
I would point out that many of these 'neo-nobles' that some of the peerage seem to having a tiff over, were indeed approved by the oversight of the Faith. Many are entitled to their opinion, but what is not is whether they have proven themselves in the eyes of the Gods. If they had not, their marriages would not of been approved, their houses not elevated.
You may question the suitability all you like as that is anyone's right, but if you want to question the fact then you are questioning the capability of the Faith to speak for Limerance.
I really shouldn't have to make these points, because I assume most people are smart enough to know better. And yet, here we are.
You may question the suitability all you like as that is anyone's right, but if you want to question the fact then you are questioning the capability of the Faith to speak for Limerance.
I really shouldn't have to make these points, because I assume most people are smart enough to know better. And yet, here we are.
Written By Cassandra
May 5, 2020, 5:49 p.m.(3/26/1013 AR)
Relationship Note on Cristoph
I did always say you were the favorite, didn't I.
Written By Cassandra
Jan. 17, 2020, 6:03 p.m.(8/1/1012 AR)
Relationship Note on Josephine
There have been few times in my life that I have been witness to true courage and honor. When it is seen manifest from the words we speak as followers of Gloria. What I saw, it is hard to truly comprehend. I witnessed Josephine, without fear, with no thought to herself, stride forward and face the dark. There was no hesitation, no resignation, but perhaps acceptance. She did not think of herself. Only those with her.
In that moment, I believe Gloria walked with her hand in hand. I have seen knights and warriors whose courage has faltered and failed when the moment came. It is sobering to know that while we say we do not fear the dark, it is perhaps something else when confronted with it. When you know what your choice will bring. Josephine made her choice, almost gladly, and strode with a sense of purpose I have not seen in years. Now that I have time to collect, I know now that I was humbled by it.
And yet, I feel as though I have failed her. Losing good men and women is not something so foreign to me. I know that feeling having led armies in battle and number of casualties after. Perhaps this cuts so much more deeply as I could do nothing but watch it happen. If my focus were to slip, it would put others in danger who I was already assisting in combat. I could not go to her aid nor rush to her side, I could not defend her. I was her Legate, and I feel, in that moment, I have failed one who I looked upon as a friend.
The fault is mine in that I did not spend as much time with her as I wished I could've. Few was our opportunities to speak, but the times we did, we relished the projects that we would work on, once we had the time. She was a staunch supporter of the Guild and the Faith. We spoke of finding the history of the Guild and how best to guide it. Now, while those goals may yet still be achieved, it feels as though it will be missing something.
I should celebrate, as I know she is not truly gone, only to be spun once again upon the Wheel. I feel I simply mourn the loss of possibilities and opportunities I could've had with her. I mourn the loss of a face I will no longer see in this life. I will mourn the wisdom that I cannot look to when I seek advice. I feel many people will feel the same way.
I could not say these in the proclamation that I wrote, speaking personally. But in this one instance, I have no desire to hide my personal feelings on the matter. I have lost a friend.
I will miss you.
In that moment, I believe Gloria walked with her hand in hand. I have seen knights and warriors whose courage has faltered and failed when the moment came. It is sobering to know that while we say we do not fear the dark, it is perhaps something else when confronted with it. When you know what your choice will bring. Josephine made her choice, almost gladly, and strode with a sense of purpose I have not seen in years. Now that I have time to collect, I know now that I was humbled by it.
And yet, I feel as though I have failed her. Losing good men and women is not something so foreign to me. I know that feeling having led armies in battle and number of casualties after. Perhaps this cuts so much more deeply as I could do nothing but watch it happen. If my focus were to slip, it would put others in danger who I was already assisting in combat. I could not go to her aid nor rush to her side, I could not defend her. I was her Legate, and I feel, in that moment, I have failed one who I looked upon as a friend.
The fault is mine in that I did not spend as much time with her as I wished I could've. Few was our opportunities to speak, but the times we did, we relished the projects that we would work on, once we had the time. She was a staunch supporter of the Guild and the Faith. We spoke of finding the history of the Guild and how best to guide it. Now, while those goals may yet still be achieved, it feels as though it will be missing something.
I should celebrate, as I know she is not truly gone, only to be spun once again upon the Wheel. I feel I simply mourn the loss of possibilities and opportunities I could've had with her. I mourn the loss of a face I will no longer see in this life. I will mourn the wisdom that I cannot look to when I seek advice. I feel many people will feel the same way.
I could not say these in the proclamation that I wrote, speaking personally. But in this one instance, I have no desire to hide my personal feelings on the matter. I have lost a friend.
I will miss you.
Written By Cassandra
Jan. 12, 2020, 6:07 p.m.(7/19/1012 AR)
I was hoping to be one of the lucky few that managed to find themselves in possession of a new kitten from the litter Duke Bisland's cat had. Sadly, I was not one of those selected.
A personal shame. I have missed having a cat since my younger years. In another lifetime, I remember having a orange, black and white spotted cat who my father had gifted to me as a girl. She was, I hate to admit, my squire during the days where I play imaginary stories of being Gloria's personal knight. Dame Erika Sixtoes of the Order of Sharpclaw. Or just Erry as I would call her as we were personal friends. When I was home, Erry would usually be by my side, for better or for worse. Excellent mouser, she gave no quarter in battle.
Sixteen years she and I shared. Sixteen happy years, when my duties started to take my away from home, I would make sure to find time, even if simply scripture in my room. Until one day, after a few years of her slowing down, mousing less and sleeping more, she simply...never woke up. I still miss her. While I don't believe I would ever try to replace her, as she could never be replaced, I don't hide my fondness for cats. It would be nice to have another one.
A personal shame. I have missed having a cat since my younger years. In another lifetime, I remember having a orange, black and white spotted cat who my father had gifted to me as a girl. She was, I hate to admit, my squire during the days where I play imaginary stories of being Gloria's personal knight. Dame Erika Sixtoes of the Order of Sharpclaw. Or just Erry as I would call her as we were personal friends. When I was home, Erry would usually be by my side, for better or for worse. Excellent mouser, she gave no quarter in battle.
Sixteen years she and I shared. Sixteen happy years, when my duties started to take my away from home, I would make sure to find time, even if simply scripture in my room. Until one day, after a few years of her slowing down, mousing less and sleeping more, she simply...never woke up. I still miss her. While I don't believe I would ever try to replace her, as she could never be replaced, I don't hide my fondness for cats. It would be nice to have another one.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.