Written By Marian
June 21, 2020, 4:55 a.m.(7/7/1013 AR)
Relationship Note on Piccola
No victory has ever come with ease. It is hard won with the blood and bones of Faithful warriors who have placed their trust in me. I have never assumed victory before my enemy has lowered their swords in defeat. Such hubris would be a detriment on the battlefield.
Now on the matter of deception. Yes, at times, I seek to defeat not just the sword but the plans of my enemy by outmaneuvering them. The right placement of troops can sometimes save lives of my warriors, reduce the impact of the battle on the innocent. I would prefer to win without bloodshed by convincing my foe to bend through diplomacy. However, it's never taken for granted that my forces are superior in strategy or might.
I pray to Gloria before every battle that we may fight with honor, bringing glory to the Compact. I honor the sacrifices of those warriors who give their lives in service to the Compact. I dream of peace, when I give my sword to the next generation, and sit in taverns entertaining our future heroes on tales of my deeds so they will not make the same mistakes.
Now on the matter of deception. Yes, at times, I seek to defeat not just the sword but the plans of my enemy by outmaneuvering them. The right placement of troops can sometimes save lives of my warriors, reduce the impact of the battle on the innocent. I would prefer to win without bloodshed by convincing my foe to bend through diplomacy. However, it's never taken for granted that my forces are superior in strategy or might.
I pray to Gloria before every battle that we may fight with honor, bringing glory to the Compact. I honor the sacrifices of those warriors who give their lives in service to the Compact. I dream of peace, when I give my sword to the next generation, and sit in taverns entertaining our future heroes on tales of my deeds so they will not make the same mistakes.
Written By Marian
June 14, 2020, 1:06 p.m.(6/22/1013 AR)
How will history judge us in 100 years? Even a thousand years? Will my children curse the day I was born or erect statues to celebrate my deeds?
We are living among times of great change. With change comes fear or hope, depending on which side of these arguments you are sitting. Oaths are being questioned, loyalties are divided for some. For those facing difficult questions, ask how your progeny will remember you. Because when you take away the banners, the politics, it's about our legacy that we leave for the next generation. They will suffer the consequences of your mistakes and benefit from your victories.
We are living among times of great change. With change comes fear or hope, depending on which side of these arguments you are sitting. Oaths are being questioned, loyalties are divided for some. For those facing difficult questions, ask how your progeny will remember you. Because when you take away the banners, the politics, it's about our legacy that we leave for the next generation. They will suffer the consequences of your mistakes and benefit from your victories.
Written By Marian
June 4, 2020, 3:52 p.m.(6/2/1013 AR)
Relationship Note on Fergus
Every birthday of Nia, I read a letter written by my late husband for his daughter. This year she turned six so his words of wisdom were on designing her first steel sword. A fine blade that is more than just training. He gave advice on weighting, a proper pommel and special instructions for the blade master. Each word spoke of his love to her. By the time I choked out the last words, I found the tears in my eyes which I quickly brushed aside so I wouldn't upset her.
A burden of love, to read the words of a man I will never hold in my arms again. I would not forsake this tradition with Nia for the world because these letters are her last connection to him. A way to know this man through his own thoughts. I hope as she grows, she can look at his painting over the mantle and know him.
In the end, she didn't change a thing in his design for her. So from paper to life, that sword now is strapped to side.
A burden of love, to read the words of a man I will never hold in my arms again. I would not forsake this tradition with Nia for the world because these letters are her last connection to him. A way to know this man through his own thoughts. I hope as she grows, she can look at his painting over the mantle and know him.
In the end, she didn't change a thing in his design for her. So from paper to life, that sword now is strapped to side.
Written By Marian
April 18, 2020, 6:04 a.m.(2/19/1013 AR)
Always be a student of life. Never assume there is nothing more that you can not learn. Whenever you think you may have reached your peak, find a new horizon to chase.
Written By Marian
April 10, 2020, 7:47 a.m.(2/3/1013 AR)
Scars are nothing more than a map
Lines of demarcation upon the skin
Telling stories of brutal blood and pain
Making memories that leave us changed.
Each line has a different slice of life
Connecting to that tapestry of dream.
A badge of honor that lets your enemies
Know that you survived their worst.
Lines of demarcation upon the skin
Telling stories of brutal blood and pain
Making memories that leave us changed.
Each line has a different slice of life
Connecting to that tapestry of dream.
A badge of honor that lets your enemies
Know that you survived their worst.
Written By Marian
April 4, 2020, 11:47 a.m.(1/19/1013 AR)
The kids have taken to trying to 'ambush' me about the villa. Jumping out from behind curtains, or even rolling out from under my bed to swat at me with their wooden swords. I know I should probably stop this...after all, an suspecting lord or lady might fall prey to their games but I can't find the heart to stop their war games.
Princess Freja would have been proud.
Princess Freja would have been proud.
Written By Marian
March 28, 2020, 3:35 p.m.(1/6/1013 AR)
Relationship Note on Juniper
I only recently learned of your passing. My heart aches for the fine diplomat that once stepped in to mitigate a dispute that I myself could not solve on my own. We drifted apart once your took your vows. I blame myself as much as our own busy schedules. I just took for granted that you would always be there to offer me sage advice.
Written By Marian
March 28, 2020, 3:33 p.m.(1/6/1013 AR)
My birthday has come and passed. This time with my children at my side in the wilds of the North. It was good to get away and spend some quality time with the little ones.
Written By Marian
Nov. 22, 2019, 11:56 p.m.(4/1/1012 AR)
Relationship Note on Esoka
I wish you well on your new journey.
I will not forget the impact you had on my life.
May we meet again on the field of battle
Swords drawn as we fight the enemies of the Compact.
I will not forget the impact you had on my life.
May we meet again on the field of battle
Swords drawn as we fight the enemies of the Compact.
Written By Marian
Oct. 27, 2019, 11:11 a.m.(2/4/1012 AR)
As the days grow darker, the snow piles high.
Many seek shelter from the relentless chill.
Join the fires of our family to recount the year.
Finding pleasure in hot cider and warm chestnuts.
A time to reflect on ourselves and gather for next
Yearly plans that will roll once the ice melts to spring.
Many seek shelter from the relentless chill.
Join the fires of our family to recount the year.
Finding pleasure in hot cider and warm chestnuts.
A time to reflect on ourselves and gather for next
Yearly plans that will roll once the ice melts to spring.
Written By Marian
Oct. 17, 2019, 2:37 a.m.(1/11/1012 AR)
Relationship Note on Belladonna
Do you seek to besmirch Northlanders with your careless words? Or just echoing stereotypes of the South that distract from the shining examples of diplomacy, elegance and grace of the fair Lycene I've had pleasure working with?
There is nothing sad about winter. The blanket of white snow eliminating the frail and weak. The warmth of family and friends who pause their lives to reconnect because of the impassable force that is nature. The welcomed weight of leathers and furs that protect from the exhilarating, biting winds of the North. Every season has merit in the cycle. Do not insult others fondness just because of difference.
There is nothing sad about winter. The blanket of white snow eliminating the frail and weak. The warmth of family and friends who pause their lives to reconnect because of the impassable force that is nature. The welcomed weight of leathers and furs that protect from the exhilarating, biting winds of the North. Every season has merit in the cycle. Do not insult others fondness just because of difference.
Written By Marian
Oct. 16, 2019, 2:28 a.m.(1/9/1012 AR)
Ice. Wind. Chill. The elements that herald winter are old friends. I find myself standing in snow, closing my eyes and listening to nature's fury. It soothes my own fires and lets me hibernate until the spring thaw.
Written By Marian
Oct. 12, 2019, 6:26 a.m.(1/2/1012 AR)
Once again another year has passed.
I suppose I could have thrown a large celebration to herald the event. However, I spent the day with my children. We did have a cake, a special treat. Nia and Fergus begged to sit on my lap so we fairly left the matter up to chance. Valen prevailed much to his siblings ire. He's such a quiet boy but very clever. Great scholars will have to mentor him when he gets older since his clever mind figured out the best way to win.
In the coming days, I shall be visiting my brother and sister, a simple dinner. Truly, I need nothing more than the love and support of my family. Perhaps I shall drag my liege out for a boar hunt. Princess Gwenna and I might have a quick drink to catch up on matters of state. It's just another day in my life. Nothing to put in parchment.
I suppose I could have thrown a large celebration to herald the event. However, I spent the day with my children. We did have a cake, a special treat. Nia and Fergus begged to sit on my lap so we fairly left the matter up to chance. Valen prevailed much to his siblings ire. He's such a quiet boy but very clever. Great scholars will have to mentor him when he gets older since his clever mind figured out the best way to win.
In the coming days, I shall be visiting my brother and sister, a simple dinner. Truly, I need nothing more than the love and support of my family. Perhaps I shall drag my liege out for a boar hunt. Princess Gwenna and I might have a quick drink to catch up on matters of state. It's just another day in my life. Nothing to put in parchment.
Written By Marian
Oct. 12, 2019, 6:16 a.m.(1/2/1012 AR)
Relationship Note on Aiden
When I was young, my mother taught me the meanings of animals. They had a place in our lives and our dreams. The goose in a dream typically meant fertility and family. A flock of geese could indicate a partnership or marriage. It was considered a good omen to have geese at your wedding which is why these sacred birds would be used in ceremonies.
Since embracing my Faith, I have put aside such superstitions. However, I find myself at the Shrine of Petrichor, praying on this matter. Because even if we discount the symbolism, groups of birds dying mid-flight does not speak well of our environment. I have made a point of keeping my own companion, Ender, grounded when outdoors until a better explanation can be made. I am encouraging others with knowledge of these events to speak to Duke Aiden Rubino since his extensive knowledge of birds might assist in averting further tragedy to other flocks.
Since embracing my Faith, I have put aside such superstitions. However, I find myself at the Shrine of Petrichor, praying on this matter. Because even if we discount the symbolism, groups of birds dying mid-flight does not speak well of our environment. I have made a point of keeping my own companion, Ender, grounded when outdoors until a better explanation can be made. I am encouraging others with knowledge of these events to speak to Duke Aiden Rubino since his extensive knowledge of birds might assist in averting further tragedy to other flocks.
Written By Marian
Sept. 29, 2019, 4 p.m.(12/5/1011 AR)
Spending as much time as I can out in the field until winter comes. Then I can relax and enjoy my family.
Written By Marian
Sept. 22, 2019, 8:22 a.m.(11/17/1011 AR)
In my youth, my hands itched to wield my sword and honor my family by slaying my enemies. My fresh scars were a mantle of survival that showed I'm still here. The fires in the war camps were filled with stories of heroism that bonded me to my fellow warriors. I had no care at times for my own safety.
As the seasons have passed, I find that my sword hand no longer aches for blood. My skin has scars layered upon one another. My eyes are weary from the smoke of burning bodies, my ears ache from the lamentations of those left behind. My children's prayers are reminders of why I cannot court Death without consequence.
War is no longer my first action but my last because I have learned other ways to solve conflict. While it is my hope diplomacy will keep the peace, the signs point towards the drums beating in the distance as feet march in sync. I prepare myself once again.
As the seasons have passed, I find that my sword hand no longer aches for blood. My skin has scars layered upon one another. My eyes are weary from the smoke of burning bodies, my ears ache from the lamentations of those left behind. My children's prayers are reminders of why I cannot court Death without consequence.
War is no longer my first action but my last because I have learned other ways to solve conflict. While it is my hope diplomacy will keep the peace, the signs point towards the drums beating in the distance as feet march in sync. I prepare myself once again.
Written By Marian
Sept. 13, 2019, 2:46 a.m.(10/27/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Arcadia
When Nia was born, I was truly humbled by the sheer joy that entered my life. It was Fergus and Valen, my twins, who helped me get through my husband's loss. Every day these precious gifts delight me while riding me to the edge of insanity.
Becoming a mother is a life altering experience. I can not wait to see how this piece of the journey changes you.
Becoming a mother is a life altering experience. I can not wait to see how this piece of the journey changes you.
Written By Marian
Sept. 6, 2019, 2:29 a.m.(10/13/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Shard
Excommunication is not a weapon wielded by the Faith to force an action. It's a last resort, a recognition of heresy that is dangerous to those Faithful. I don't see any ulterior motives in the Godsworn by rejecting rhetoric that could damage our beliefs.
Nor is there any connection between those Abandoned, choosing to live outside the Compact and a heretic that rejects the teachings of the Faith. Rejecting sovereignty does not mean one is faithless just as rejecting Faith does not make one outlaw. Can a poor fool fall so off the path to do both, I imagine it's possible. Certainly not advisable under any circumstances.
Don't blur the lines here by suggesting excommunication makes it permissible to commit murder. Regardless of the decisions of a heretic, citizens of Arx can not commit murder without consequences. This decision by the Faith does not invite harm on this heretic. There is no glory in lashing out at the mentally ill. I would only bear arms against a heretic if the lives of citizens of this Compact were in danger.
There are consequences to rejecting sovereignty. Just as there are consequences in heresy. Both paths can circle back to redemption, one in bending on knee to rejoin the Compact as the other requires repentance to the Church. Both circumstances allow for choices. I do not pity others for their choices taken freely. Or criticize others for enforcing consquences.
Nor is there any connection between those Abandoned, choosing to live outside the Compact and a heretic that rejects the teachings of the Faith. Rejecting sovereignty does not mean one is faithless just as rejecting Faith does not make one outlaw. Can a poor fool fall so off the path to do both, I imagine it's possible. Certainly not advisable under any circumstances.
Don't blur the lines here by suggesting excommunication makes it permissible to commit murder. Regardless of the decisions of a heretic, citizens of Arx can not commit murder without consequences. This decision by the Faith does not invite harm on this heretic. There is no glory in lashing out at the mentally ill. I would only bear arms against a heretic if the lives of citizens of this Compact were in danger.
There are consequences to rejecting sovereignty. Just as there are consequences in heresy. Both paths can circle back to redemption, one in bending on knee to rejoin the Compact as the other requires repentance to the Church. Both circumstances allow for choices. I do not pity others for their choices taken freely. Or criticize others for enforcing consquences.
Written By Marian
Sept. 5, 2019, 4:20 p.m.(10/12/1011 AR)
Lord Rysen and Lady Tescelina held an event, Weapons of the Compact, the other night. I can not quantify the sheer enjoyment I got from sitting down with my fellow warriors and telling stories about our weapons. Duchess Delilah spent a good part of the evening, collecting the stories that were told. What really humbled me was the personal stories about these weapons that are used day by day by fellow nobles and commoners who are protecting this great nation, honoring Gloria with their devotions. More often than not, it wasn't about the forge, the blade and how it was made. Or how many generations that weapon had served. It was about the warriors and how they used these weapons have protected and bled our enemy who would sunder the Compact. The solidarity in that room showed me just how united we are when faced with a common foe.
Yes, we will always have our differences. But all of us have spilled blood to protect Arvum, fought for Gloria. These men and women should be honored for their sacrifices, no matter how legendary their weapons.
Yes, we will always have our differences. But all of us have spilled blood to protect Arvum, fought for Gloria. These men and women should be honored for their sacrifices, no matter how legendary their weapons.
Written By Marian
Sept. 4, 2019, 10:21 p.m.(10/11/1011 AR)
My daughter, Nia, has taken to whispering messages to spiders in her free time. When I asked her why, she explained that the Queen of Endings favors spiders and daddy is with her so she tells the spiders about her day so he can find out what she's been up to. It gave me a bit of pause to sit there and think about spiders and their connection to the Queen of Endings.
There's a part of me that hopes it's true. It's funny how our children bring new perspectives.
There's a part of me that hopes it's true. It's funny how our children bring new perspectives.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.