Written By Gaston
June 28, 2020, 10:37 p.m.(7/22/1013 AR)
Scholar, as I am writing this, I have returned to the lands of Cloudspine to see to the request for help by the miners working here and my first entry that I will be submitting after my return is one with sadness. It is also the first time I have pulled the blade given to me as the House Sword and had to use it to end a life. A shav who is only a bit younger than me, whose life is so much different than ours, perhaps a simpler life but one that is no doubt frayed with dangers. Dangers such as us. Though I was within my right as Sword of Blackram to dispatch this shav raider along with his brethren who have trespassed and claimed the land of my families as theirs, killed the innocent miners that worked under my family name, it still fills my heart with sadness and doubt as I feel there may have been a more peaceful path that was denied us. I will take the time to contemplate more once I have returned to Arx.
Written By Gaston
June 15, 2020, 12:23 a.m.(6/23/1013 AR)
The memorial for the Thralls that had fallen at Sungreet was a sharp reminder that freedom is not gained just with eloquent words and pretty statements. Usually they are fiercely fought for with the price of blood and death. Sacrifices. So many sacrifices just so others have a chance to live freely. I cannot forget, I must not forget the price one pays when taking the risk to break their chains. Whether the chains are held by slave masters or something even darker, I cannot stand idly by.
Written By Gaston
June 14, 2020, 10:42 p.m.(6/22/1013 AR)
Getting the chance to work with animals reminds me of the times when I had less responsibility on my shoulders. I had almost forgotten just how honest animal companions can be in their actions and behavior. To see the bonds strengthen between the master and their respective companion is truly a joy, one that I am looking forward to the next time I have the opportunity to work with the Lyon and the Lyonhound. Watching the two learn from each other, I see quite a bit of potential, especially with time, effort, and patience.
Written By Gaston
June 7, 2020, 4:37 p.m.(6/8/1013 AR)
This week, I had a surprising but pleasant reminder that at times, one must also learn to relax instead of just burying your head in books, papers, and duty. It was enjoyable to just sit back and enjoy a few drinks, play some games, without worrying too much if your actions could have lasting consequences. Though it was not my original plan as I had intended to get more work done, there were no regrets. Plus I gained some temporary souvenirs in the process.
Written By Gaston
May 31, 2020, 10:21 p.m.(5/22/1013 AR)
Received a message from my home back in Cloudspine, it seems like one of the mines are having issues with an Abandoned Tribe. That is surprising because when I was home a few months ago, there was no sign of any troubles with the Abandoned in the area. Things were relatively quiet when I went to check on the notable areas of our home. I pray that it is just a minor incident and that the trip will just be another opportunity to see home again. I shall see who is available to journey to Cloudspine with me to take a look and make it an enjoyable trip instead of a troubling one. Now I shall depart, Scholar, and start making preparations for the trip. With luck, I will be back here soon updating my journal that it was just a misunderstanding.
Written By Gaston
May 31, 2020, 10:06 p.m.(5/22/1013 AR)
Good evening Scholar, tonight I am here to have my thoughts recorded down on transcript instead of reading the entry of others. And this one is of a more personal nature instead of pertaining to my duties or my House.
One night this past week, I had stepped out of the Fasthold for a brief reprieve in my studies back at the Fasthold and decided to visit the botanical gardens where I ran into someone I did not expect to nor would I have wished to. Seeing her and hearing her voice again, a tiny sliver of me was happy but the rest was sharply reminded of the dangers she represents in the new realm I am stepping into. Words from her tongue flowed smoothly with a touch of gentleness but they are no doubt as sharp as ever, where even the thickest of armor could not protect.
I am honestly glad to see that she was doing well, especially after the last encounter we had that felt like ages ago before I saw her again. Then the memories surfaced as if they happened yesterday. The anger, the words flung at me as sharp as alaricite, which cut deeply. It was only due to my own misguided emotions towards another, towards an impossible future that allowed me to turn and walk away.
So seeing her again in the gardens was a surprise and I was certainly on my guard, though I am sure that would have done nothing to protect myself. Her demeanor was cordial and proper, though the words she spoke shows that she has not forgotten what happened the last time we met. Even though I wish her well, I am not sure if I will want to see her again, especially now when my focus is elsewhere.
One night this past week, I had stepped out of the Fasthold for a brief reprieve in my studies back at the Fasthold and decided to visit the botanical gardens where I ran into someone I did not expect to nor would I have wished to. Seeing her and hearing her voice again, a tiny sliver of me was happy but the rest was sharply reminded of the dangers she represents in the new realm I am stepping into. Words from her tongue flowed smoothly with a touch of gentleness but they are no doubt as sharp as ever, where even the thickest of armor could not protect.
I am honestly glad to see that she was doing well, especially after the last encounter we had that felt like ages ago before I saw her again. Then the memories surfaced as if they happened yesterday. The anger, the words flung at me as sharp as alaricite, which cut deeply. It was only due to my own misguided emotions towards another, towards an impossible future that allowed me to turn and walk away.
So seeing her again in the gardens was a surprise and I was certainly on my guard, though I am sure that would have done nothing to protect myself. Her demeanor was cordial and proper, though the words she spoke shows that she has not forgotten what happened the last time we met. Even though I wish her well, I am not sure if I will want to see her again, especially now when my focus is elsewhere.
Written By Gaston
May 24, 2020, 7:49 p.m.(5/8/1013 AR)
The arrival of the abandoned knight, Sir Volgan, brought very surprising news. When Sister Dianna received the message that the knight carried and shared it with those present, the news was most encouraging. If this proceeds smoothly, it will certainly strengthen the Compact and the Houses that take the initiative will no doubt benefit. I know I have much to discuss with my sister on this to see if there is anything we can do to assist on the matter. I am looking forward to the progress that can be made.
Written By Gaston
May 17, 2020, 12:47 p.m.(4/22/1013 AR)
When I wrote of things bubbling over the other day, I did not expect it to be what had happened at the city center today. As I write this, my left hand is bandaged and soothing balm has been applied to my left cheek. However, the slight burns are not the worst, not by far. What my eyes beheld after the riots was… madness. Centipedes, a sea of them coming from who knows where! How can there even be that many. One moment, it was just a mob of angry rioters, then some fires, and then the disgusting creatures. There was too much chaos and I am not sure how, I was able to clear a path out for myself down one of the side avenues. I am at a loss of what transpired today, it was as if it was a nightmare.
Written By Gaston
May 17, 2020, 12:24 p.m.(4/22/1013 AR)
It appears I have chosen a very interesting time to return from the Cloudspine as there is a very big problem rumbling beneath the ordered surface of the city. Hearing the complaints and rumors that are now growing louder and louder from the citizens of Arx, one can see that the recent incidents like the Maelstrom is the spark that lit the small fire. Now that things are getting tougher, those who are impoverished are feeding the flames, as their own livelihoods are now threatened. Guidance is sorely needed in these troubled times and unfortunately time is running out. With each tick of the clock, those who are in need will grow in number and soon, the bubbling pot will spillover. If it does, this will not be an easy mess to clean up and I am afraid there will be blood before it is all over. Let us pray that it does not come to that.
Written By Gaston
May 10, 2020, 8:53 p.m.(4/8/1013 AR)
Relationship Note on Brianna
The first, large scale formal event that I have attended since my return to Arx and it was much more extravagant than I had imagined, especially with the number of extinguished guests that were of attendance. I must state for the record, even if it is my own, the Direhorn gift was not my idea, it was my sister's. However, she most likely knows the bride and groom much better than I do and it is a rather unique present.
How the celebrations ended was also outside of anything I would have imagined as well as it involved a lot of snow and a blade sailing through the sky. It was fortunate that Lord Arik was tended to immediately and from the sounds of it, he will be making a full recovery. Anything less would be tragic and unfortunate.
How the celebrations ended was also outside of anything I would have imagined as well as it involved a lot of snow and a blade sailing through the sky. It was fortunate that Lord Arik was tended to immediately and from the sounds of it, he will be making a full recovery. Anything less would be tragic and unfortunate.
Written By Gaston
May 10, 2020, 8:22 p.m.(4/8/1013 AR)
Since my return to Arx from my home in Cloudspine, it was a stark reminder of how busy things can be and how different life here is compared to back home. I have spent quite a bit of time reading, from reports of what has been happening in the realm, to texts of important theories of the... challenges we are and will be facing in our lives.
With each passing day, I feel I am more up to the challenge that will be facing me as I am on the path of helping my sister strengthening our House. It seems like she feels the same because during our family dinner this week, she announced that she was appointing me as House Sword. This was not something I had expected when I returned to Arx, especially not this soon, but with the encouragement from others and the stern words of my cousin, Cerys, I agreed in the end. The weight of responsibility grows heavier but I will be able to handle it, I have to.
With each passing day, I feel I am more up to the challenge that will be facing me as I am on the path of helping my sister strengthening our House. It seems like she feels the same because during our family dinner this week, she announced that she was appointing me as House Sword. This was not something I had expected when I returned to Arx, especially not this soon, but with the encouragement from others and the stern words of my cousin, Cerys, I agreed in the end. The weight of responsibility grows heavier but I will be able to handle it, I have to.
Written By Gaston
May 4, 2020, 9:51 a.m.(3/23/1013 AR)
Visitors came to Blackram and it was a very pleasant surprise. A cousin I haven't seen in a long time and her husband, reminding me that time is always moving whether we remember or not, a steady progression that is stopped by nothing. Another reminder is family, not only the return of a cousin butan addition as she came with her husband. A reminder that helps reinforce what I have been contemplating as of late, that family bonds are the most important bond that one can have, unbreakable if well forged, brittle and a great loss if left unattended.
Written By Gaston
May 1, 2020, 3:42 p.m.(3/18/1013 AR)
We all have our paths that we must walk and in our life long journey, we will find numerous forks in the path that we are taking. We all have a main path that shines brightly as that is what is true to the core of ourselves, however, there are times when we stray because of the weakness within ourselves. It seems like I have strayed from my path yet again but once more, managed to reopen my eyes with some clarity. With that clarity I have seen my weakness again, the lack of composure that is the crack in the armor of my heart, a weakness that I must strive to resolve.
Returning home to Cloudspine and spending time back in the wild was a reminder of who I was. I find solace and comfort with the creatures that dwell here, a sense of peace like I did in my younger days. Then focusing on duties of my House, I was able to reaffirm the loyalty and bonds of blood and family. Lastly, taking time to review my private journal archives, I was able to remind myself of the errors of my past and the pains they may have caused. I shall, in the future, revisit the archives periodically so I can recall and learn from my past. Thus, a stronger future can be forged.
I should never forget. For my House. For my family.
Returning home to Cloudspine and spending time back in the wild was a reminder of who I was. I find solace and comfort with the creatures that dwell here, a sense of peace like I did in my younger days. Then focusing on duties of my House, I was able to reaffirm the loyalty and bonds of blood and family. Lastly, taking time to review my private journal archives, I was able to remind myself of the errors of my past and the pains they may have caused. I shall, in the future, revisit the archives periodically so I can recall and learn from my past. Thus, a stronger future can be forged.
I should never forget. For my House. For my family.
Written By Gaston
Jan. 13, 2020, 8:04 a.m.(7/20/1012 AR)
Sometimes you have to stop and take an account of where you are...and who you have become.
I've been in Arx for years now, but how many of those have been years in which the path I tread was the right one, I don't know.
Having discovered what truly makes me happy -- and the things and people who truly hold value to me -- I look down at the one I walk now and...for the life of me, can't help but wonder how I got started in the first place, and whether it's really worth what I surrendered.
I've been in Arx for years now, but how many of those have been years in which the path I tread was the right one, I don't know.
Having discovered what truly makes me happy -- and the things and people who truly hold value to me -- I look down at the one I walk now and...for the life of me, can't help but wonder how I got started in the first place, and whether it's really worth what I surrendered.
Written By Gaston
Jan. 7, 2020, 5:26 a.m.(7/8/1012 AR)
The Shrine of the Thirteenth has almost never seen my worship, and I have always carried an Oathlander's healthy deep wariness of the place. It's just...creepy as hell in there, isn't it?
But when looking for answers, sometimes the best place to start is by considering your own reflection, and contemplating your questions until the truth comes to you.
I pray in solemn thanks to Tehom for the glance I was granted, and I will always remember that joyous battlecry, alone but /free./
But when looking for answers, sometimes the best place to start is by considering your own reflection, and contemplating your questions until the truth comes to you.
I pray in solemn thanks to Tehom for the glance I was granted, and I will always remember that joyous battlecry, alone but /free./
Written By Gaston
Jan. 3, 2020, 10:53 a.m.(6/28/1012 AR)
For the first time in a couple of weeks, I actually slept well for once. I suppose that's the work of a healing touch.
Seems a shame so many folk are so restless now, though.
Seems a shame so many folk are so restless now, though.
Written By Gaston
Dec. 30, 2019, 4:57 a.m.(6/20/1012 AR)
If the Queen suddenly seems a lot taller for some reason, you have not in fact gone mad.
...actually on second thought, perhaps it's best I make no guarantee, just in case.
...actually on second thought, perhaps it's best I make no guarantee, just in case.
Written By Gaston
Dec. 25, 2019, 12:37 a.m.(6/9/1012 AR)
Relationship Note on Teagan
Please, sister. You need to be able to shake a finger at someone at least once a week or you start getting the shakes, it's a sorry sight!
Fear not, I shall never abandon you to such a terrible malady.
Can you even imagine a life without waking up to confront my latest blundering? /Gods forbid./
Fear not, I shall never abandon you to such a terrible malady.
Can you even imagine a life without waking up to confront my latest blundering? /Gods forbid./
Written By Gaston
Dec. 24, 2019, 3:12 a.m.(6/7/1012 AR)
Relationship Note on Preston
Ah, but of course. I simply forgot to elucidate.
You see, in every turn of the Wheel a soul confronts its own "demon tree."
For some, these are the basest vices -- Dust, the abuse of haze or liquor, the gambling away of every last platinum duke. For these poor wretches, the "sacrifice of their blood" to the "tree" is obvious; as the tree's roots wrap tighter and tighter, squeezing every last drop of willpower from them, the damage to their metaphorical forearm is garish and visible for all to see.
For others, the "demon tree" is much more insidious -- the lure of poisonous ambition. What might lead one to forsake family and friends in their lust for ambition, tromping ruthlessly on the upturned faces of any who help them in their ascent from humble beginnings to the peaks of what power they thought possible and beyond. The gutted forearm in this case is so subtle that the victim might not see it at all until they are bled dry.
Tragedies, both.
And then, last but not least, there are those for whom the "demon tree" is literally a Gods-damned demon tree that possessed them and made them bleed for it and we burned the horrid little shit to ashes.
Praise be to Skald.
Praise be to Lagoma.
You see, in every turn of the Wheel a soul confronts its own "demon tree."
For some, these are the basest vices -- Dust, the abuse of haze or liquor, the gambling away of every last platinum duke. For these poor wretches, the "sacrifice of their blood" to the "tree" is obvious; as the tree's roots wrap tighter and tighter, squeezing every last drop of willpower from them, the damage to their metaphorical forearm is garish and visible for all to see.
For others, the "demon tree" is much more insidious -- the lure of poisonous ambition. What might lead one to forsake family and friends in their lust for ambition, tromping ruthlessly on the upturned faces of any who help them in their ascent from humble beginnings to the peaks of what power they thought possible and beyond. The gutted forearm in this case is so subtle that the victim might not see it at all until they are bled dry.
Tragedies, both.
And then, last but not least, there are those for whom the "demon tree" is literally a Gods-damned demon tree that possessed them and made them bleed for it and we burned the horrid little shit to ashes.
Praise be to Skald.
Praise be to Lagoma.
Written By Gaston
Dec. 22, 2019, 9:33 p.m.(6/5/1012 AR)
My sister is very concerned that my last entry will bring our peers to consider me eccentric and weird, and thus cast shame and dishonor upon our House.
I am sorry to say that she is years too late for her concerns to be preemptive.
I am sorry to say that she is years too late for her concerns to be preemptive.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.