Written By Mason
Feb. 17, 2020, 10:02 a.m.(10.313576802248678/11.560300925925926/1012.7761314001874 AR)
I rarely write in the journals of the Archive. I am Eurusi. My opinions have rarely been popular.
Recent events compel me to put my thoughts down for history, not out of hubris, but out of desire to offer a perspective. I was born and raised across the sea in the Dune Kingdom of Ahj'on. I carry the name of a royal family, and though my personal claim to any authority was as distant as my homeland is now, I still lived with great luxury and entitlement until the very moment I left the sands.
What the people of Arvum forever struggle to understand is that slavery is part of the Eurusi culture. It is built into every aspect of lives there. I have long compared Thralldom to the slavery of Eurus, but also spoken in critical contrast of it. Thralldom forever offered *hope* to the enthralled. There was a chance for freedom, however impossible it might have seemed. In Eurus, there is no hope for a slave.
The castes in Ahj'on are inflexible. Slaves are treated as nothing more than a tool, and if your tool frustrates you or isn't working how you desire, you were free to do with it as you like. Would you think twice about setting aside a hair brush that has broken bristles? Would you do little more than lift an eyebrow at someone that throws aside a cracked pot in frustration when it has leaked wine upon their table? No one would arrest you for throwing out a tool here. No one would arrest you for murdering a slave you own if they displeased you there.
I would never hold my people unaccountable, nor do I hold myself any less so. But when a people are raised in a way of thinking, generation after generation, you have to give them the *choice* to make change. You cannot cut down a society simply for doing what has always been done. My feet were bathed by the hands of a slave when I lived there. My food was cooked by slaves. I was dressed by slaves. It wasn't the presence of slaves that led to my leaving my homeland. I was born into it and never thought to see differently. It was the *way* they were treated that opened my eyes.
If any are questioning if this is a battle that need be fought, I can speak at length to the cruelties delivered upon the slaves of Eurus. If one desires to know Skal'daja better, I have never been there, but I know many stories of the city where people are bought and sold as commodities in cages beside livestock. If you question why Prism asks for temperance instead of slaughter, ask if you would slaughter me. I am of a Eurusi royal family, yet here I am serving Arvum's cause.
I trust Prism, completely. If you do not have the privilege of knowing her personally but you are a friend of mine, trust that she speaks truthfully without deception.
There is little that terrifies me more than returning to Eurus, but there is no cause I believe more noble than seeking to free those forever chained in the Dune Kingdoms.
Recent events compel me to put my thoughts down for history, not out of hubris, but out of desire to offer a perspective. I was born and raised across the sea in the Dune Kingdom of Ahj'on. I carry the name of a royal family, and though my personal claim to any authority was as distant as my homeland is now, I still lived with great luxury and entitlement until the very moment I left the sands.
What the people of Arvum forever struggle to understand is that slavery is part of the Eurusi culture. It is built into every aspect of lives there. I have long compared Thralldom to the slavery of Eurus, but also spoken in critical contrast of it. Thralldom forever offered *hope* to the enthralled. There was a chance for freedom, however impossible it might have seemed. In Eurus, there is no hope for a slave.
The castes in Ahj'on are inflexible. Slaves are treated as nothing more than a tool, and if your tool frustrates you or isn't working how you desire, you were free to do with it as you like. Would you think twice about setting aside a hair brush that has broken bristles? Would you do little more than lift an eyebrow at someone that throws aside a cracked pot in frustration when it has leaked wine upon their table? No one would arrest you for throwing out a tool here. No one would arrest you for murdering a slave you own if they displeased you there.
I would never hold my people unaccountable, nor do I hold myself any less so. But when a people are raised in a way of thinking, generation after generation, you have to give them the *choice* to make change. You cannot cut down a society simply for doing what has always been done. My feet were bathed by the hands of a slave when I lived there. My food was cooked by slaves. I was dressed by slaves. It wasn't the presence of slaves that led to my leaving my homeland. I was born into it and never thought to see differently. It was the *way* they were treated that opened my eyes.
If any are questioning if this is a battle that need be fought, I can speak at length to the cruelties delivered upon the slaves of Eurus. If one desires to know Skal'daja better, I have never been there, but I know many stories of the city where people are bought and sold as commodities in cages beside livestock. If you question why Prism asks for temperance instead of slaughter, ask if you would slaughter me. I am of a Eurusi royal family, yet here I am serving Arvum's cause.
I trust Prism, completely. If you do not have the privilege of knowing her personally but you are a friend of mine, trust that she speaks truthfully without deception.
There is little that terrifies me more than returning to Eurus, but there is no cause I believe more noble than seeking to free those forever chained in the Dune Kingdoms.
Written By Mason
Jan. 28, 2018, 12:12 p.m.(1/19/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Fortunato
I am sorry that I am embarrassing you further, my friend, but truly there is nothing to be embarrassed about. There are many artists throughout the ages, but few earn to have their name live on. I consider myself endlessly lucky to not only see your work mature and grow over time, but to share a friendship with someone so gifted and influential... The art show's success could never have happened without the toil and soul you poured into those pieces, and I have never seen you put anything less than your all into all your work.
Fortunato Grayhope is a truly masterful artisan.
Fortunato Grayhope is a truly masterful artisan.
Written By Mason
Jan. 24, 2018, 8:30 a.m.(1/11/1008 AR)
I've recently learned of some things that make my heart feel heavier than I thought it capable. I know that I am guilty of vagueness, but I often forget to put my thoughts to paper, despite my many hours at the archives.
I try to spend a lot of time listening to people and hearing their stories. I have learned over the years that we all have our burdens to bear. Some more than others, that is certain, and I do not take any of the blessings of life I have received for granted. I know how fortunate my birth was. I fully understand the benefits of title and rank. One thing that is not shielded by nobility, however, is sorrow. There is enough of that to go around for all.
I truly hope the friends that have been gracious enough to trust me recently know that I think of them, and try to share some small piece of the burden they face.
I try to spend a lot of time listening to people and hearing their stories. I have learned over the years that we all have our burdens to bear. Some more than others, that is certain, and I do not take any of the blessings of life I have received for granted. I know how fortunate my birth was. I fully understand the benefits of title and rank. One thing that is not shielded by nobility, however, is sorrow. There is enough of that to go around for all.
I truly hope the friends that have been gracious enough to trust me recently know that I think of them, and try to share some small piece of the burden they face.
Written By Mason
Dec. 31, 2017, 10:40 a.m.(11/15/1007 AR)
Ajh'on... I cannot take much more of this. Travel on a boat by sea will not keep me from searching for her.
Written By Mason
Dec. 10, 2017, 10:21 p.m.(10/2/1007 AR)
Sometimes I find myself here at the archive with a desire to unburden my soul. Do I deserve such relief this time? I've felt this sort of pain and weight before. I don't intend to wallow in it, but I'm going to hold onto it for some time. It's the least I can do.
So many people get hurt, even from good intentions. It makes me think about the Reckoning. How many of the key players in that catastrophic series of events would have moved forward had they known what would happen?
Even the smallest action can have so many dire consequences. A person can speak up a voice of opposition about something and that single moment can cause dozens of others to lose their lives.
Aleksei described me as 'driven'. I think I need to step back and evaluate my choices and seek what I can change to prevent damaging mistakes in the future.
So many people get hurt, even from good intentions. It makes me think about the Reckoning. How many of the key players in that catastrophic series of events would have moved forward had they known what would happen?
Even the smallest action can have so many dire consequences. A person can speak up a voice of opposition about something and that single moment can cause dozens of others to lose their lives.
Aleksei described me as 'driven'. I think I need to step back and evaluate my choices and seek what I can change to prevent damaging mistakes in the future.
Written By Mason
Oct. 8, 2017, 7:48 p.m.(5/12/1007 AR)
Maybe what I thought was confidence born of hope is actually cockiness and pride.
I should be more mindful of remembering what I have seen in the past. Burying the fear isn't going to make the things I'm afraid of go away.
There are mountains to climb and I am but a grain of sand pushed around by the winds.
I should be more mindful of remembering what I have seen in the past. Burying the fear isn't going to make the things I'm afraid of go away.
There are mountains to climb and I am but a grain of sand pushed around by the winds.
Written By Mason
Oct. 3, 2017, 2:01 p.m.(5/1/1007 AR)
Soon I will be going on an expedition with a large group, but more importantly, my wife. I love her dearly or I would never have considered this trip. Should I drown on the ship traveling there, or freeze to death in the cold north, or finally fall to my death from a cliff... there are some things I need to share:
1) Thank you to everyone in Arx that has been so incredibly generous with their donations. Slavery is something that leaves a fire of anger burning within my being and knowing that so many people want to take steps to offer people freedom fills me with hope for Arvum.
2) The Grayson family has always been incredible to me. I deserved nothing yet they gave me everything. They will always have my respect and loyalty.
3) I had thought to start this soon as a more organized campaign, but as I realize just how dangerous this expedition is, I will write it here so that other Liberators may take up the cause and continue with it, should I not return. There are many people that wanted to help and looked to purchase artwork that were outbid. I offer a humble suggestion that you consider small, regular donations to the Liberators instead. ((OOC: weekly bank payments )) Even a small payment of 50 silver a week would help us to get support in place for those newly freed from chains. If everyone in the city gave even 20 silver a week, I suspect the collected donations would add up to greatness.
Good luck to all my friends and family with their own challenges and journeys ahead.
1) Thank you to everyone in Arx that has been so incredibly generous with their donations. Slavery is something that leaves a fire of anger burning within my being and knowing that so many people want to take steps to offer people freedom fills me with hope for Arvum.
2) The Grayson family has always been incredible to me. I deserved nothing yet they gave me everything. They will always have my respect and loyalty.
3) I had thought to start this soon as a more organized campaign, but as I realize just how dangerous this expedition is, I will write it here so that other Liberators may take up the cause and continue with it, should I not return. There are many people that wanted to help and looked to purchase artwork that were outbid. I offer a humble suggestion that you consider small, regular donations to the Liberators instead. ((OOC: weekly bank payments )) Even a small payment of 50 silver a week would help us to get support in place for those newly freed from chains. If everyone in the city gave even 20 silver a week, I suspect the collected donations would add up to greatness.
Good luck to all my friends and family with their own challenges and journeys ahead.
Written By Mason
Sept. 21, 2017, 10:40 a.m.(4/4/1007 AR)
I grew up in a culture built on the backs of others. Slavery in Eurus is exactly what a person thinks of when they hear the term. I lived there for over two decades. It's easy to grow defensive of what you've always known and were raised into. It's what gives us strong personal characteristics such as loyalty, determination, and conviction. But sometimes you have to press that loyalty and conviction against your own sense of identity. It's hard and it's raw. It makes you wonder if there's something at fault in yourself because everyone around you 'knows' a thing to be right and true.
It took me years to build up the courage to speak out against the enslavement of people. I understand how hard it is for someone to take that step, I truly do. I hope people are patient and accepting of those whose minds take longer to change. Sometimes sitting back and listening to how one defends their culture gives great insight into what their needs and feelings are, and then there is more room for discussion and diplomacy.
It took me years to build up the courage to speak out against the enslavement of people. I understand how hard it is for someone to take that step, I truly do. I hope people are patient and accepting of those whose minds take longer to change. Sometimes sitting back and listening to how one defends their culture gives great insight into what their needs and feelings are, and then there is more room for discussion and diplomacy.
Written By Mason
Sept. 20, 2017, 8:19 a.m.(4/2/1007 AR)
I am stunned and eternally gratified at the number of people that came to the art show reception last night. The generosity of the people of Arx never ceases to amaze me, even after the four years I have lived here.
I hope to spend as much time as I can over at the shrine in the next few weeks so that I can speak with people about the artwork and answer questions. I cannot say at this time just how many thralls we will be able to pay debts for as the numbers are all quite varied, but I am very moved by the amount of silver that has been donated and look forward to seeing the money put to good use in freeing people from servitude.
My endless thanks to both Fortunato Grayhope for putting my vision to canvas, and to Blessed Aleksei for his ceaseless support and enthusiasm for this project.
I hope to spend as much time as I can over at the shrine in the next few weeks so that I can speak with people about the artwork and answer questions. I cannot say at this time just how many thralls we will be able to pay debts for as the numbers are all quite varied, but I am very moved by the amount of silver that has been donated and look forward to seeing the money put to good use in freeing people from servitude.
My endless thanks to both Fortunato Grayhope for putting my vision to canvas, and to Blessed Aleksei for his ceaseless support and enthusiasm for this project.
Written By Mason
Sept. 19, 2017, 7:29 p.m.(3/28/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Fortunato
The art show begins soon. I am quite nervous about how it will be received, but no matter the reactions, Master Fortunato has done incredible work. I never could have explained with words what he has captured on canvas. We could not have found anyone better for this project.
Written By Mason
July 21, 2017, 3:20 p.m.(11/17/1006 AR)
There is always a moment when my wife returns from one of her trips, be it a sojourn, a scouting mission, or exploration. In that moment, we share an embrace and there is nothing my heart desires more than for the sands to stop falling through the hourglass, so that the sheer rush of love, affection, and peace I always feel might never end.
There are so many that never know the simple freedom of such moments, I must try to appreciate it for all that it is worth.
There are so many that never know the simple freedom of such moments, I must try to appreciate it for all that it is worth.
Written By Mason
June 23, 2017, 10:39 p.m.(9/17/1006 AR)
There have been many losses of late, even after the siege and battles are over. I have been so buried in my research that I must remember to embrace life and appreciate the people I love around me. I wish that I could wrap Safiyyah into a protective hold and never let go, but then she would never learn how to be strong and independent.
Making decisions as a parent may be some of the most difficult a person must make, yet it has given me a new perspective on what rulers must endure. If all the people are your children, how great is the burden of a crown, to know that all you decide affects them?
It gives me greater respect for the leaders of Arvum and how they have kept this land so free and full of life.
Making decisions as a parent may be some of the most difficult a person must make, yet it has given me a new perspective on what rulers must endure. If all the people are your children, how great is the burden of a crown, to know that all you decide affects them?
It gives me greater respect for the leaders of Arvum and how they have kept this land so free and full of life.
Written By Mason
May 30, 2017, 7:58 a.m.(7/21/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Larissa
Larissa Whisper has made a choice that should be lauded and respected.
Slavery, at it's core, is about money. Why pay people when you can force them to work for free? It's certainly easier and more profitable. It would have been easy for her to hold another charity auction. Instead, she listened, opened her mind, and agreed that there are other ways to raise funds that do not celebrate a practice that millions of people still suffer in this world.
Not everyone in The Compact is protected by law from forms of slavery.
Slavery, at it's core, is about money. Why pay people when you can force them to work for free? It's certainly easier and more profitable. It would have been easy for her to hold another charity auction. Instead, she listened, opened her mind, and agreed that there are other ways to raise funds that do not celebrate a practice that millions of people still suffer in this world.
Not everyone in The Compact is protected by law from forms of slavery.
Written By Mason
May 23, 2017, 8:02 a.m.(7/7/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Larissa
I must praise Larissa Whisper for being able to open her mind and see things with different eyes. It was a difficult conversation, but we both learned much from it, I believe. I have much gratitude for her ability to push through and try to truly understand my grievances.
Written By Mason
May 21, 2017, 10:26 p.m.(7/4/1006 AR)
I have had a day with as many ups and downs as the great dunes of sand around Ahj'on. I thank those that have have written or spoke their support of my feelings. I did not anticipate such interest in my humble writing upon these pages. Please know that what I share next is not meant to shame anyone and I have no desire to make enemies of any of the wonderful people of this great city.
I feel very strongly about this subject, and slavery is not an easy subject for honest discussion. A smarter person than I pointed out to me today that the First Choice chose *our* city.. I say 'our' because I consider myself an Arxian as much as the next. I have come to call it home. Therefore, if the First Choice chose this to be his place of new beginnings, then we must pay him the respect he deserves and try to better ourselves towards greater freedoms.
It is the smallest grain of sand that contributes to the most devastating of sand storms. I doubt the grains of sand intended to cause damage or hurt others, yet they do.
I understand that the residents of Arx do not see what I see. How can they? It may seem I am nitpicking ... semantics? Perhaps. I cannot control the fear in my heart. Perhaps that is my failing. There are many dark things in this world that begin with 'willing' participants. I know of too many of them, and I have seen what it can become...
Lastly, I do not presume to speak for any thralls on this matter, but I do wonder what their feelings are about such great sums of money being spent on a willing auction when their own lives are still in bondage.
I feel very strongly about this subject, and slavery is not an easy subject for honest discussion. A smarter person than I pointed out to me today that the First Choice chose *our* city.. I say 'our' because I consider myself an Arxian as much as the next. I have come to call it home. Therefore, if the First Choice chose this to be his place of new beginnings, then we must pay him the respect he deserves and try to better ourselves towards greater freedoms.
It is the smallest grain of sand that contributes to the most devastating of sand storms. I doubt the grains of sand intended to cause damage or hurt others, yet they do.
I understand that the residents of Arx do not see what I see. How can they? It may seem I am nitpicking ... semantics? Perhaps. I cannot control the fear in my heart. Perhaps that is my failing. There are many dark things in this world that begin with 'willing' participants. I know of too many of them, and I have seen what it can become...
Lastly, I do not presume to speak for any thralls on this matter, but I do wonder what their feelings are about such great sums of money being spent on a willing auction when their own lives are still in bondage.
Written By Mason
May 21, 2017, 7:33 a.m.(7/3/1006 AR)
Despite my years living here, I still do not understand all of the customs and traditions of the people of Arx.
To make merriment of the sale of people, even in jest, left me feeling as if choked by the great dunes in a sandstorm. I truly hope the people of Arvum never know why this event cut so deeply upon my soul. It is obvious to me now that they do not understand the depths of how far enslavement can go. Would you make a mockery of the battle with the Bringers of Silence, taking turns at pretending to be their victims? Would you play a game depicting the wreckage of Thrall's Lament?
To see another from Eurus participate? That troubles me greatly.
To make merriment of the sale of people, even in jest, left me feeling as if choked by the great dunes in a sandstorm. I truly hope the people of Arvum never know why this event cut so deeply upon my soul. It is obvious to me now that they do not understand the depths of how far enslavement can go. Would you make a mockery of the battle with the Bringers of Silence, taking turns at pretending to be their victims? Would you play a game depicting the wreckage of Thrall's Lament?
To see another from Eurus participate? That troubles me greatly.
Written By Mason
May 17, 2017, 11:49 a.m.(6/23/1006 AR)
I feel as if Arx is a different city than when I left. During the siege, the people have changed. It can be seen on their faces and reflected in their eyes. These are a people that have now tasted of the horrors out there in the world. No more is the easy assurance that everything is mythology. Dark forces ever seep into Arvum and it distresses me deeply.
I had hoped to have put so much of that behind me, but perhaps that is why fate has brought me here? It seems arrogant to assume as much, but I will do my best to learn what I can so I can be of assistance to those in need, regardless.
I had hoped to have put so much of that behind me, but perhaps that is why fate has brought me here? It seems arrogant to assume as much, but I will do my best to learn what I can so I can be of assistance to those in need, regardless.
Written By Mason
Feb. 14, 2017, 6:21 p.m.(12/4/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Nadia
I can't say I knew her well, and I was told she was my cousin-in-law some time ago. So many people I seem to related to, and yet, I have had so few words with them.
I have but one memory of Nadia that really sticks out in my mind. I had brought a large serving bowl of curry to an event this past summer. I had wanted Arvians to have a taste of Eurusi food. What I discovered is that it wasn't to some of their palettes. Which resulted in a curry fight between Prince Darren and Duchess Nadia. To the point where curry had gotten flung into her eye.
It was a good memory.
May merciful and wise Ahj'on guide you to your rest.
I have but one memory of Nadia that really sticks out in my mind. I had brought a large serving bowl of curry to an event this past summer. I had wanted Arvians to have a taste of Eurusi food. What I discovered is that it wasn't to some of their palettes. Which resulted in a curry fight between Prince Darren and Duchess Nadia. To the point where curry had gotten flung into her eye.
It was a good memory.
May merciful and wise Ahj'on guide you to your rest.
Written By Mason
Feb. 12, 2017, 10:57 p.m.(12/1/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Laric
After my bout of illness, I found myself in the presence of a man who seemed to know a great deal more than I did. And about a subject that I really ought to know more about. I even wanted to look into this particular topic of interest, I just haven't had the time for it. Seems to me, now I may finally have something to research this in at a more properly ability to do so. Which is good. Either way, I should pick his mind more.
Written By Mason
Feb. 6, 2017, 11:19 p.m.(11/14/1005 AR)
I find myself at a loss. I'm not really sure what I can do now. I was sick for a great deal of time, and now it simply feels like the world has passed me by. So I don't really know where to go from here. I sit and I think and I ponder, and I wonder where to go from here.
And maybe it's a bit of trepidation that perhaps I have learned too much. Or I've fallen out of certain circles and suddenly been lost at the wayside.
Some guidance would sincerely help at this point, because I don't know what to do now.
And maybe it's a bit of trepidation that perhaps I have learned too much. Or I've fallen out of certain circles and suddenly been lost at the wayside.
Some guidance would sincerely help at this point, because I don't know what to do now.
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