Written By Gwenna
Jan. 20, 2024, 8:18 a.m.(8/4/1021 AR)
I will pen something fitting of recording soon - once I wrap my thoughts around all that occurred and the incredible efforts of the Houses of the Northlands. For now, though...
We made our stand at Farhaven. We did not yield.
We made our stand at Farhaven. We did not yield.
Written By Gwenna
Jan. 10, 2024, 7:13 p.m.(7/13/1021 AR)
There are few in the Compact who have not heard the tales of Queen Valeria Redrain in the time of the Reckoning, and certainly not a soul in the Northlands. Fewer records survived about her sister Elira. Elira the warrior, Elira the strategist, Elira the steadfast. Valeria's little sister who offered sanctuary in Farhaven to others as the North became more and more deadly, and Elira who held the territory around Farhaven against demonic forces. Elira, who held Farhaven for ten long years as Valeria and the others fought through the White Legions in hopes of freeing the city. The gates never fell.
I am not sure if history might be repeating itself or if the paths before us are coincidence. I know where I must be and what we must do for the Northlands and Arx. There is no way to know what will prove successful or foolish until the histories are ready to be written. All we can really know is that we will make our stand and fight.
To the Last.
I am not sure if history might be repeating itself or if the paths before us are coincidence. I know where I must be and what we must do for the Northlands and Arx. There is no way to know what will prove successful or foolish until the histories are ready to be written. All we can really know is that we will make our stand and fight.
To the Last.
Written By Gwenna
Dec. 24, 2023, 10:39 a.m.(6/6/1021 AR)
It is hard to properly put to words all that has happened recently. For now, there appears to be a bit of time to celebrate and mourn, and I am grateful for as much.
Written By Gwenna
Dec. 17, 2023, 1:31 p.m.(5/20/1021 AR)
Sometimes, people are so stubborn that you just can't argue with them. It's a source of frustration and, yet, understanding in a way. If I am committed enough in my choice, and sure enough that I am right or doing the right thing, I'd like to think that the people who know me well would also allow me that decision. Being on the other side of that scenario is not so easy.
Written By Gwenna
Dec. 2, 2023, 8:15 p.m.(4/19/1021 AR)
Relationship Note on Volcica
Lady Volcica Nap-Disturber. I will never not use that.
Well, okay, at official functions and situations in which correct titles are expected and proper to use, but otherwise...
Well, okay, at official functions and situations in which correct titles are expected and proper to use, but otherwise...
Written By Gwenna
Nov. 11, 2023, 5:24 p.m.(3/5/1021 AR)
Relationship Note on Mabelle
My cousin is genuinely amazing, and I wholly regret that we don't get to spend more time together. The things that she has accomplished are the stuff of legends. Whether the task is a new fabric or rebuilding a city, she seems to manage it almost effortlessly. I know, of course, that it takes a great deal of effort, which is a testament to her tenacity.
We managed to meet for a bit today, though not to gossip or talk about the fashions we both so love. Sometimes, especially these last few years, there just isn't time when there are so many other challenges before us. Still, the warmth of the Laurent library and shared goals are things I am grateful for this day.
We managed to meet for a bit today, though not to gossip or talk about the fashions we both so love. Sometimes, especially these last few years, there just isn't time when there are so many other challenges before us. Still, the warmth of the Laurent library and shared goals are things I am grateful for this day.
Written By Gwenna
Oct. 27, 2023, 11:17 p.m.(2/3/1021 AR)
I spent nearly three months traveling through the Northlands before the real brunt of winter was upon us. It was cold, don't get me wrong, but the kind of cold that feels refreshing and clean when you're away from the city. But wrong, lately, in a way that is hard to describe. Still, duty called and there were many villages to visit as well as review the recent construction projects that were completed. Sometimes being away and distracted with tasks outside of Arx remind me how much there is to love in the city as well. It's good to be back, though I wonder if I could have done more while away. I suppose such things haunt us all these days.
Written By Gwenna
July 30, 2023, 3:52 p.m.(4/7/1020 AR)
No few in the family remain in Farhaven even though the warmth of Spring is hinted at in the air. That hint is here in Arx, of course. It will be at least a month or two before those inklings might make it home. I'm all the more grateful for the family, and especially friends, that remains here in the city. There is much to do and having the opinions and support of others from the Northlands and realm just steps away from the villa is truly a comfort these days.
Written By Gwenna
May 28, 2023, 7:09 a.m.(11/21/1019 AR)
My recent trip to Tremorus for the wedding and celebration of my cousin, now Marquis-Consort Nazmir, to Marquessa Cassiopeia Proscipi, did not disappoint. Were the two to be wed in the city with a small gathering, I would of course still be delighted! But this experience is one that I won't soon forget.
I admit some trepidation about being on a boat again heading for the Saffron Chain, but my worries were quickly put to rest. The city is absolutely brilliant with color, and there were tours that brought us down the mountain to white sand beaches, as well as to see some historical sights. There are still hints of the destruction that happened there, though seeing those along with all that has been achieved since gives a great sense of hope upon seeing them.
The celebration of the marriage was truly extraordinary. The theme, entertainment, and food were beyond imagining. It felt like a festival, to be honest, with heartfelt moments as many of us offered speeches and our congratulations. The joining of our Houses brings me great joy and anticipation, for our experiences come from the farthest ends of Avrum and together should be quite insightful indeed. The couple have already done much in Tremorus and I can only imagine what they might accomplish next.
I admit some trepidation about being on a boat again heading for the Saffron Chain, but my worries were quickly put to rest. The city is absolutely brilliant with color, and there were tours that brought us down the mountain to white sand beaches, as well as to see some historical sights. There are still hints of the destruction that happened there, though seeing those along with all that has been achieved since gives a great sense of hope upon seeing them.
The celebration of the marriage was truly extraordinary. The theme, entertainment, and food were beyond imagining. It felt like a festival, to be honest, with heartfelt moments as many of us offered speeches and our congratulations. The joining of our Houses brings me great joy and anticipation, for our experiences come from the farthest ends of Avrum and together should be quite insightful indeed. The couple have already done much in Tremorus and I can only imagine what they might accomplish next.
Written By Gwenna
May 21, 2023, 6:53 a.m.(11/7/1019 AR)
It is often difficult to balance duties and social events, the latter of which are perhaps nearly as important as the former. Sometimes things weigh on a person to the point that it feels like it would be hard to indulge in something enjoyable. Of course, I knew the Under the Stars Ball was upcoming and even mused over an outfit I have that fit the theme perfectly. Still, I wondered if time would allow, or my mood would dissuade me once again from some merriment. The stars must have aligned (pun intended) and I did end up going. How glad I am that I did. Marquessa Quenia turned the Botanical Gardens into a delightful wonderland! I still marvel at the elegance she achieved when I think upon it. The wine, unsurprisingly, was excellent and the food as well. It was nice to see familiar faces and notice a few new ones as well. Overall, it was a stunning affair and I'm of a mind to make time in the future to attend such things more often.
Written By Gwenna
May 20, 2023, 1:07 p.m.(11/5/1019 AR)
Between a thousand other things, I've been working on sketching a bit of something that will eventually be a gift. I'm actually quite happy with it thus far and hope one of the amazing artisans in the city might turn it into something tangible. It's an incredibly important thing and I'm not alone in thinking so.
Written By Gwenna
April 30, 2023, 10:12 a.m.(9/21/1019 AR)
Success is never final, nor generally is failure. Success tends to be the sum of small efforts, repeated day-in and day-out. How very fortunate we are that the Northlands are filled with great people who often courageously greet each day with this in mind. Whether that be the courage to sow fields in less than hospitable climates, or defend borders against threats, or come to Arx to parry with politics. Each task is a piece of a much larger, though ever-changing, puzzle. There are times, like in this moment, when those endeavors bring the whole of the Northlands to a prosperous place. For that, I am humbled and sincerely grateful. It has taken many years and the efforts of so many people - family and allies - who quietly helped build something great.
Such things can be fleeting, of course, but it is nice to take in the moment when it happens and marvel at what the Northlands has managed to accomplish. Not that we can linger long at as much, for the winds of war continue to blow over the Compact and we must ready ourselves for what may come next.
Such things can be fleeting, of course, but it is nice to take in the moment when it happens and marvel at what the Northlands has managed to accomplish. Not that we can linger long at as much, for the winds of war continue to blow over the Compact and we must ready ourselves for what may come next.
Written By Gwenna
March 12, 2023, 10:29 a.m.(6/7/1019 AR)
History is as full of villains as it is heroes. Bloodlines are often doomed by the actions of an ancestor, or group of ancestors, whose infamy overshadows whatever deeds the following generations might make to distance themselves from those past events. Are some things just too great to overcome? Can trust ever be reestablished? It is hard to say. Perhaps it is in trusting, in taking that leap of faith, that we learn more about the past and those who actually learned from it. Naive, some may say, to think history will not repeat itself. Yet the past is a place we hopefully can learn from rather than be a place we allow our thoughts and beliefs to live.
Written By Gwenna
Jan. 14, 2023, 6:44 p.m.(3/23/1019 AR)
The Redrain Villa has a study that I have loved since the day I came to Arx. It is one of the most comfortable and pleasant rooms in the estate but isn't used as much as it should be. There often isn't time to just sit and enjoy the room for its comfort. Today I took that time, though, even if it may have been somewhat irresponsible of me. I've had no few meetings in the study - small ones, mind you. I always sit in the same chair, which doesn't necessarily make it mine, of course, but I certainly favor it. I've had the incredible fortune to convince some rather amazing people from the Compact to come meet in the study - from first introductions to fearful discussions, to ambitious talks with family and friends. I'm so grateful for those interactions, each and every one. People sometime say, 'If these walls could talk.' The study at the villa is certainly one of those rooms for me, if only to revisit with people who aren't able to come visit it again.
Written By Gwenna
Nov. 19, 2022, 5:44 p.m.(11/23/1018 AR)
I had wondered some months ago how Redrain's turn at hosting the Assembly might go. I am someone that likes to be prepared, as hard as the world sometimes makes that, so of course I considered what could occur prior to the event; what issues might be brought forth or what things would need to be addressed. The last Assembly I personally oversaw was not particularly quiet. This time, however, it was, though it felt more like a quiet before the storm - all of us preparing and waiting for what may come. Still, it is always an honor to sit with the dedicated leaders of the Compact as well as the peers and citizens who come to listen or bring forward their own concerns.
Written By Gwenna
Nov. 13, 2022, 3 p.m.(11/11/1018 AR)
The seasons have changed again, and I sometimes feel like they all go too fast, blurring from one to another as the Compact faces tragedy and triumph. Winter is, unsurprisingly, my favorite time of the year but there is something to be said for the absolute beauty of autumn. Surely there are hundreds, if not thousands, of poems and songs about the changing of the leaves, but it truly is a spectacular vision. It is rarely the same and the wonder of it all never seems lost with experience.
Written By Gwenna
Oct. 2, 2022, 11:07 a.m.(6/26/1018 AR)
Choices and outcomes. The former is a gift we've been given while the latter may often be decided by society. Some things are rather simple. If I choose to drink two bottles of whiskey, the outcome will be a dreadful tiredness and headache the next day. Few, especially in the Northlands, would judge that too harshly.
Other choices may have far greater implications. Consequences, even, and yet I see so many of us take those paths with hope that eventually the ends will justify the means. That there are greater goods which will come from those choices and the upset, perhaps even turmoil, we may cause is something we will have to shoulder as best we can. Not everything can be rebuilt again, but perhaps that's not such a bad thing. Maybe, we get the chance to build something better.
Other choices may have far greater implications. Consequences, even, and yet I see so many of us take those paths with hope that eventually the ends will justify the means. That there are greater goods which will come from those choices and the upset, perhaps even turmoil, we may cause is something we will have to shoulder as best we can. Not everything can be rebuilt again, but perhaps that's not such a bad thing. Maybe, we get the chance to build something better.
Written By Gwenna
Sept. 29, 2022, 5:53 p.m.(6/21/1018 AR)
Being a liaison to the Iron Guard has perks, it seems. That, or the fact that I've rarely been out of the study the last few weeks to cross their path...
Written By Gwenna
Aug. 7, 2022, 4:15 p.m.(2/27/1018 AR)
Relationship Note on Felicia
I did not know Dame Felicia incredibly well, but I would certainly call us more than acquaintances. She struck me as someone who managed to be both incredibly practical and yet would run into a fire if a situation necessitated it. I did, in fact, quite literally see her run into a fire. She was very passionate about her family and their well-being; she reminded me of a mother bear, like the ones we so often see in the Northlands. I am grateful to have gotten to know her and some of her history, and feel honored that she even put some trust in me.
Written By Gwenna
July 31, 2022, 5:25 p.m.(2/13/1018 AR)
I think the meeting went well. There were some unexpected occurrences and information, but those will only help us with the task at hand, I believe. I am so grateful that people took the time to attend, both from the Northlands and from outside of them. What I love about the Northlands is that each House is fiercely independent and unique. With such comes a variety of experiences, knowledge, and perspectives that when put together, tends to form a stronger picture. I feel so fortunate to count so many of my fellow leaders in the North my friends as well. I am also glad for our allies in the Templars and that the Carnifex so often takes the time to join us in our planning discussions. While we may all debate the best way to go about something, or the most intelligent way, one thing I think we all agree on: protecing the people we are responsible for.
Thanks to this meeting and the generous input from everyone who attended - and I do mean everyone - I think we have the beginnings of an outline. I will have to review my notes and send out further inquiries, but it is more than I had this morning when I got out of bed. For that, once again, I am immeasurably grateful.
I should note, too, that meetings like this make me miss Marian's presence in the city a great deal. I know she needs to be in Farhaven, of course, and is busy enough with matters there. I am always reminded of being new to Arx and seeing her command the great hall for these sorts of thing, I suppose.
Thanks to this meeting and the generous input from everyone who attended - and I do mean everyone - I think we have the beginnings of an outline. I will have to review my notes and send out further inquiries, but it is more than I had this morning when I got out of bed. For that, once again, I am immeasurably grateful.
I should note, too, that meetings like this make me miss Marian's presence in the city a great deal. I know she needs to be in Farhaven, of course, and is busy enough with matters there. I am always reminded of being new to Arx and seeing her command the great hall for these sorts of thing, I suppose.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.