Written By Mattheu
Feb. 22, 2024, 9:56 a.m.(10/14/1021 AR)
It is awkward and weird to be back within a city which we sought to be away from. A distance needed for the time after the many ravaging battles, and now one where we are securing the rivers once again. There will be trade again throughout the compact.
It is no longer as divided as it once was. Those small camps which we would run supplies to even if we weren't suppose to. ... it is far harder to turn one's back upon those that know of the damage within life that is a shared experience. No matter what the Compact once had to say in the matter.
I'm not hiding this journal away. In the years prior I would write similar to this then have it sealed. My words off my chest then no longer for others to see or read.
I won't hide this. There are many within the city now who need some assurance to know that we can grow from this experience. Our children's children's children might not know the specifics. They might not fully understand the songs that have been warped and changed over the years. I can only hope they are similar to the Ravashari songs of today which have told us of the stories of the times around the Dance of Skulls.
A song which many within the city always would put on a smile and nod, to tell my family and I - what a nice way to think of the lore.
Only we cannot speak of it as lore any more. We've all just lived through it personally. There is no turning back from this knowledge.
And thus to see someone still wandering around the city without peace-bonding their weapon. It is a slap to everything which we have fought to preserve. We are to be peaceful to our own. We are to build a better world.
We can only do so in all following the same civility.
Else everything we have done to this point is going to be lost all over again.
It is no longer as divided as it once was. Those small camps which we would run supplies to even if we weren't suppose to. ... it is far harder to turn one's back upon those that know of the damage within life that is a shared experience. No matter what the Compact once had to say in the matter.
I'm not hiding this journal away. In the years prior I would write similar to this then have it sealed. My words off my chest then no longer for others to see or read.
I won't hide this. There are many within the city now who need some assurance to know that we can grow from this experience. Our children's children's children might not know the specifics. They might not fully understand the songs that have been warped and changed over the years. I can only hope they are similar to the Ravashari songs of today which have told us of the stories of the times around the Dance of Skulls.
A song which many within the city always would put on a smile and nod, to tell my family and I - what a nice way to think of the lore.
Only we cannot speak of it as lore any more. We've all just lived through it personally. There is no turning back from this knowledge.
And thus to see someone still wandering around the city without peace-bonding their weapon. It is a slap to everything which we have fought to preserve. We are to be peaceful to our own. We are to build a better world.
We can only do so in all following the same civility.
Else everything we have done to this point is going to be lost all over again.
Written By Mattheu
Feb. 22, 2024, 9:47 a.m.(10/14/1021 AR)
Relationship Note on Eshra
It was never a moment in which I meant to scare you. Never a time in which my games to play upon my brothers where I would hide, you would always know where I was. You were my protector, my teacher, my closest friend and the one to introduce me to the sisters to be my guardians when you could not.
It became a game in of itself. To find a new dance, and new treat, and fashion to how fast I could hide. Then turning into how to train and how to protect our family so -that- would never happen again.
When the time came to take to the waters and rivers, we had already seen loss at Sanctum. I reached back to the Expanse to grab the one thing which I didn't bother to pack at first. Perhaps I thought we would come back to the city after. I was naive.
And in that. I am sorry for making you worry about me.
I was never supposed to be our family's protector. Yet here we are. And I while I might seek to change one thing from a time before where ours was not of our own to choose. I can never change that you raised me when our parents were busy in their own tasks. I can never change that it was your song that would calm me when we were younger.
It is from that alone that I thought to stay and seek to protect those that I call friends.
It became a game in of itself. To find a new dance, and new treat, and fashion to how fast I could hide. Then turning into how to train and how to protect our family so -that- would never happen again.
When the time came to take to the waters and rivers, we had already seen loss at Sanctum. I reached back to the Expanse to grab the one thing which I didn't bother to pack at first. Perhaps I thought we would come back to the city after. I was naive.
And in that. I am sorry for making you worry about me.
I was never supposed to be our family's protector. Yet here we are. And I while I might seek to change one thing from a time before where ours was not of our own to choose. I can never change that you raised me when our parents were busy in their own tasks. I can never change that it was your song that would calm me when we were younger.
It is from that alone that I thought to stay and seek to protect those that I call friends.
Written By Mattheu
Feb. 22, 2024, 9:41 a.m.(10/14/1021 AR)
Relationship Note on Ann
In the days and weeks past our nearly new adventure, and a slip of paper to be sent when we thought all was lost. Words upon which were the truest of all my words ever spoken and from the heart were read.
To awake within a moment where your nephew gives a warning, and your sister a word of advice to guards that - you can be dropped - ...
You're given a renewed chance. A third direction was given that day. While the world sat in near pause and ready for their goodbyes to each other even if another battle had been thwarted. There would be more to come.
We took to the waters. Where our home has always been. Where lands once thrust upon us long gone, our people seeking to get back to which we know and have known for far longer than we've ever been upon land which moves weirdly.
A magic between us shared.
It's the children who keep me smiling, Ann keeps me dancing.
To awake within a moment where your nephew gives a warning, and your sister a word of advice to guards that - you can be dropped - ...
You're given a renewed chance. A third direction was given that day. While the world sat in near pause and ready for their goodbyes to each other even if another battle had been thwarted. There would be more to come.
We took to the waters. Where our home has always been. Where lands once thrust upon us long gone, our people seeking to get back to which we know and have known for far longer than we've ever been upon land which moves weirdly.
A magic between us shared.
It's the children who keep me smiling, Ann keeps me dancing.
Written By Mattheu
Feb. 9, 2024, 12:48 p.m.(9/16/1021 AR)
Who knew it would take a world ending possibility to find and be able to claim the rivers back.
There are skirmishes of demons floating around, they are quick to learn the rivers are not safe for them. The Rivenshari will be stronger than before, and soon we will have passage upon them safe for any who seek.
There are skirmishes of demons floating around, they are quick to learn the rivers are not safe for them. The Rivenshari will be stronger than before, and soon we will have passage upon them safe for any who seek.
Written By Mattheu
Feb. 1, 2024, 8:52 p.m.(9/1/1021 AR)
There are those that understand that of which the Rivenshari are and will ever be. Then there are those that will never understand.
Written By Mattheu
Jan. 31, 2024, 2:28 p.m.(8/26/1021 AR)
Relationship Note on Ann
The end of the world is far different from what I thought might have been involved with. I was foolish and sought to grab a hammock which means something to both Ann and I, and it was lost anyways in order to find more strength to continue.
Once upon a time I would have said getting stabbed hurts.
Seeing your spouse both angry and happy at the same time is far worse
Once upon a time I would have said getting stabbed hurts.
Seeing your spouse both angry and happy at the same time is far worse
Written By Mattheu
Jan. 23, 2024, 9:57 a.m.(8/10/1021 AR)
years ago I was given a gift. A memory. It almost destroyed me...
In the moment, I was the most logical of us to receive it. so I partook, and awoke in a daze having fallen from the perch I took. It's one thing to have your own grief. Quite another to be flooded with the memory of someone else's which mirror a level of your own.
It was in that particular day in my daze where the winds lead me to the Lasting Hope Observatory. And it was there that I met a most extraordinary woman.
One who I was to suddenly be found within a romance which I never knew before. One where we were to be wed, only on the day of standing before the spirits, shaman, and our houses. She chose to follow her own heart and winds, and ran away.
In the moment, I was heart broken. And was convinced I would not find another who filled my being in the same manner.
I was mistaken. As I am constantly reminded of now. I can be daft. I can be mistaken. Though I will never misplace my love shared.
In a run through the city nearly a year later. An exercise which Violeta insists to keep doing every winter. A simple game of a snowball fight.
I took what I thought to be refuge within the outside gardens of the Golden Hart. And there in a chance moment, I found Ann who was having tea with her cousin.
It would many winding moments, chance encounters, an awkward dance, and many rooftops later where I would go to my siblings and tell them I sought to bring Ann to the River.
Eshra won a silver that day.
Our love has this almost magical quality to it. Which we never questioned, will never question.
Only to have it explained to us upon the river's edge within Riva. When Shadows and Light combined to save each other, and those trapped to a demon.
The memory shared to me what feels a long time ago now felt heavy to the forefront of my mind when the demons raged towards us in Sanctum.
I was struck back.
I put my hands to the ground and the rest...
there are many who don't get to hold their loved ones tonight. I am one of the lucky ones.
Tell those who are close to you. Shout it from the rooftops. Climb a mast, a tree if you must.
Don't wait.
In the moment, I was the most logical of us to receive it. so I partook, and awoke in a daze having fallen from the perch I took. It's one thing to have your own grief. Quite another to be flooded with the memory of someone else's which mirror a level of your own.
It was in that particular day in my daze where the winds lead me to the Lasting Hope Observatory. And it was there that I met a most extraordinary woman.
One who I was to suddenly be found within a romance which I never knew before. One where we were to be wed, only on the day of standing before the spirits, shaman, and our houses. She chose to follow her own heart and winds, and ran away.
In the moment, I was heart broken. And was convinced I would not find another who filled my being in the same manner.
I was mistaken. As I am constantly reminded of now. I can be daft. I can be mistaken. Though I will never misplace my love shared.
In a run through the city nearly a year later. An exercise which Violeta insists to keep doing every winter. A simple game of a snowball fight.
I took what I thought to be refuge within the outside gardens of the Golden Hart. And there in a chance moment, I found Ann who was having tea with her cousin.
It would many winding moments, chance encounters, an awkward dance, and many rooftops later where I would go to my siblings and tell them I sought to bring Ann to the River.
Eshra won a silver that day.
Our love has this almost magical quality to it. Which we never questioned, will never question.
Only to have it explained to us upon the river's edge within Riva. When Shadows and Light combined to save each other, and those trapped to a demon.
The memory shared to me what feels a long time ago now felt heavy to the forefront of my mind when the demons raged towards us in Sanctum.
I was struck back.
I put my hands to the ground and the rest...
there are many who don't get to hold their loved ones tonight. I am one of the lucky ones.
Tell those who are close to you. Shout it from the rooftops. Climb a mast, a tree if you must.
Don't wait.
Written By Mattheu
Jan. 22, 2024, 9:30 p.m.(8/9/1021 AR)
It is something of an awesome sight to see my family standing side by side. To be able to hold our children while bells native to us sing upon lands unfamiliar. The largest bells saved from Riva before taking to the rivers. To now be rung from deck of ships alongside of Sanctum.
Losses and sacrifices were made. Many are being put to the rivers now as I write this.
Though the might of the Rivenshari, alongside that of the Valardin forces was seen in full force today. And many will have a chance to live a longer day for what was done.
Losses and sacrifices were made. Many are being put to the rivers now as I write this.
Though the might of the Rivenshari, alongside that of the Valardin forces was seen in full force today. And many will have a chance to live a longer day for what was done.
Written By Mattheu
Jan. 20, 2024, 9:39 p.m.(8/5/1021 AR)
Relationship Note on Athaur
A rousing speech to then watch the backhand to echo through the whole of Riva. It was a good speech brother.
Then I too was backhanded. I love you Ima.
To Sanctum then.
Then I too was backhanded. I love you Ima.
To Sanctum then.
Written By Mattheu
Jan. 20, 2024, 8:24 p.m.(8/5/1021 AR)
Relationship Note on Ann
As I stand upon the boats, seeking refuge from the turmoil that engulfs Riva, my mind races with the recent events that have unfolded. Athaur's powerful proclamation echoed in the air, reminding us of the gravity of our mission. Yet, it was Ann, my heart, and Eshra, our sister, who stirred my soul and brought clarity to our purpose. Life, they emphasized, is more precious than any piece of land that fate may force us to abandon.
In the midst of chaos within Riva, our urgent task was to assist our people in reaching the flotilla. However, a somber interruption occurred as we solemnly conducted a death ritual for a fallen scout named Haldrien. The weight of loss hung in the air as his family clutched his bells, and an enigmatic knife was discovered among his possessions.
Ann and I joined forces during this poignant moment. Together, we invoked a ball of light that danced in hues mirroring the colors of the wind, casting winding shadows around us. It was through this mystical display that I felt a profound connection, and it is now this ethereal bond that resides within my heart.
Our destination is Sanctum, where we embark on a journey to defend that which we hold dearest. Despite the urgency of our mission, my left arm still throbs with the aftermath of recent events. I've been assured that it will heal in time. Fresh ink adorns my skin, depicting a winding river dragon entwined with a water spirit, engaged in a dance of love. Their serpentine bodies climb over my arm, their heads entwined protectively over my heart.
As the boats sail towards Sanctum, I find solace in the symbolism etched on my skin and the collective purpose that binds us. The journey ahead may be fraught with challenges but the echoes of Athaur's words to finally leave the land behind and Ann's reminder continue to resonate, fueling the fire within. We move forward, not just as defenders of land, but as guardians of life and love.
In the midst of chaos within Riva, our urgent task was to assist our people in reaching the flotilla. However, a somber interruption occurred as we solemnly conducted a death ritual for a fallen scout named Haldrien. The weight of loss hung in the air as his family clutched his bells, and an enigmatic knife was discovered among his possessions.
Ann and I joined forces during this poignant moment. Together, we invoked a ball of light that danced in hues mirroring the colors of the wind, casting winding shadows around us. It was through this mystical display that I felt a profound connection, and it is now this ethereal bond that resides within my heart.
Our destination is Sanctum, where we embark on a journey to defend that which we hold dearest. Despite the urgency of our mission, my left arm still throbs with the aftermath of recent events. I've been assured that it will heal in time. Fresh ink adorns my skin, depicting a winding river dragon entwined with a water spirit, engaged in a dance of love. Their serpentine bodies climb over my arm, their heads entwined protectively over my heart.
As the boats sail towards Sanctum, I find solace in the symbolism etched on my skin and the collective purpose that binds us. The journey ahead may be fraught with challenges but the echoes of Athaur's words to finally leave the land behind and Ann's reminder continue to resonate, fueling the fire within. We move forward, not just as defenders of land, but as guardians of life and love.
Written By Mattheu
Jan. 13, 2024, 4:05 p.m.(7/19/1021 AR)
Alleyways
Carriage rides
the abysmal creatures mother warned us of
a soft song to be found throughout the city
Who would have though whiskey would be interesting?
...
Carriage rides
the abysmal creatures mother warned us of
a soft song to be found throughout the city
Who would have though whiskey would be interesting?
...
Written By Mattheu
Jan. 13, 2024, 12:11 a.m.(7/17/1021 AR)
A snowball fight to find hiding
Wandering the stacks to find a good story
A view of the city from the docks
Butterflies
Gardens of flowers
A view of the city from rooftop
treehouse within the forests of Petrichor
To climb a tree
to find rescue
...
Wandering the stacks to find a good story
A view of the city from the docks
Butterflies
Gardens of flowers
A view of the city from rooftop
treehouse within the forests of Petrichor
To climb a tree
to find rescue
...
Written By Mattheu
Jan. 12, 2024, 11:58 p.m.(7/17/1021 AR)
Relationship Note on Ann
I find what we have been through to where we are today a journey which I never expected to find.
The first meeting with the children in their entirety. Silain, Thuraya, and Ilandere, each a unique soul with a vibrant spirit, brought with them a tidal wave of joy and laughter.
Upon our first encounter, Ilan, the youngest of the trio, made her presence known in the most endearing manner. With an earnest look in her eyes, she demanded to be an alliance, her innocent mispronunciation of "ally" as "a-lance" adding a touch of whimsy to the moment. It was an introduction that spoke volumes about her gentle yet determined nature.
Raya, the regal force of the trio, proudly declared herself a princess, a title she laid no claim to by birth but held as her own truth. With a twinkle in her eye and a posture of regality, she embodied the essence of a princess. We accepted her truth, recognizing the strength and determination in her proclamation.
Sil, the eldest, charmed his way into our hearts with his infectious energy and love for my brother, our chieftain and marquis. His eyes sparkled with admiration as he spoke of the drums my brother played. In a moment of spontaneity, my brother allowed Sil to play upon the drums, and the joy that radiated from the young boy was nothing short of enchanting.
The drums resonated with the laughter of Sil, the determination of Ilan, and the regal spirit of Raya. In that moment, I felt a profound sense of unity and the promise of a shared journey ahead. The walls that separated us crumbled, and the foundation of our familial bond was laid with the beats of the drums and the joyous laughter of the children.
This first meeting with Sil, Raya, and Ilan was more than just an introduction; it was a celebration of unity, diversity, and the endless possibilities that lay ahead for a family, which I didn't know would soon be one where they would call me Flounder (Father.)
The first meeting with the children in their entirety. Silain, Thuraya, and Ilandere, each a unique soul with a vibrant spirit, brought with them a tidal wave of joy and laughter.
Upon our first encounter, Ilan, the youngest of the trio, made her presence known in the most endearing manner. With an earnest look in her eyes, she demanded to be an alliance, her innocent mispronunciation of "ally" as "a-lance" adding a touch of whimsy to the moment. It was an introduction that spoke volumes about her gentle yet determined nature.
Raya, the regal force of the trio, proudly declared herself a princess, a title she laid no claim to by birth but held as her own truth. With a twinkle in her eye and a posture of regality, she embodied the essence of a princess. We accepted her truth, recognizing the strength and determination in her proclamation.
Sil, the eldest, charmed his way into our hearts with his infectious energy and love for my brother, our chieftain and marquis. His eyes sparkled with admiration as he spoke of the drums my brother played. In a moment of spontaneity, my brother allowed Sil to play upon the drums, and the joy that radiated from the young boy was nothing short of enchanting.
The drums resonated with the laughter of Sil, the determination of Ilan, and the regal spirit of Raya. In that moment, I felt a profound sense of unity and the promise of a shared journey ahead. The walls that separated us crumbled, and the foundation of our familial bond was laid with the beats of the drums and the joyous laughter of the children.
This first meeting with Sil, Raya, and Ilan was more than just an introduction; it was a celebration of unity, diversity, and the endless possibilities that lay ahead for a family, which I didn't know would soon be one where they would call me Flounder (Father.)
Written By Mattheu
Jan. 11, 2024, 4:32 p.m.(7/15/1021 AR)
Relationship Note on Ann
With a horde once again finding its way to the city. I find myself remembering of the first trip to Riva where we brought the children.
Sil, Raya, and Ilan were like eager fledglings, their excitement palpable in the air as we entered the heart of Riva. Cobblestone paths wound their way through the lively market square, bustling with merchants hawking goods from every corner of the realm. The children were entranced by the vibrant tapestry of life in the Rivenshari enclave.
The towering longhouse, perched on a hill overlooking the confluence of rivers, beckoned like a sentinel of history. Sil, true to his adventurous spirit, proposed a climb to the very top, where the cascading waterfall behind it provided a backdrop of mesmerizing beauty. Raya, with the regality that came so naturally to her, and Ilan, the quiet observer, all eagerly accepted the challenge.
Sil led the way, his copper hair catching the sunlight as he moved with the confidence of a future Rivenshari leader. Raya, head held high, followed suit, while Ilan, with her gentle demeanor, silently observed every detail.
Finally reaching the summit, the panoramic view of the rivers' confluence stretched before us like a living tapestry. The waters sparkled in the sunlight, and the greenery surrounding the settlement painted a picture of timeless beauty. The children's eyes widened, absorbing the grandeur of Riva and the legacy it held.
The majestic sight of our navy, the floatila, gliding on the river below was both awe-inspiring and slightly awkward from our elevated vantage point. The colorful sails billowed in the wind, carrying stories of Rivenshari seafaring prowess. As we stood there, a sense of unity with our people settled upon us, a reminder of the Rivenshari's legacy of strength and resilience.
The children chattered excitedly about the sights and the tales they would share with their cousins back home. Sil, Raya, and Ilan forged memories that would become a part of their own stories in the ongoing saga of our house.
Sil, Raya, and Ilan were like eager fledglings, their excitement palpable in the air as we entered the heart of Riva. Cobblestone paths wound their way through the lively market square, bustling with merchants hawking goods from every corner of the realm. The children were entranced by the vibrant tapestry of life in the Rivenshari enclave.
The towering longhouse, perched on a hill overlooking the confluence of rivers, beckoned like a sentinel of history. Sil, true to his adventurous spirit, proposed a climb to the very top, where the cascading waterfall behind it provided a backdrop of mesmerizing beauty. Raya, with the regality that came so naturally to her, and Ilan, the quiet observer, all eagerly accepted the challenge.
Sil led the way, his copper hair catching the sunlight as he moved with the confidence of a future Rivenshari leader. Raya, head held high, followed suit, while Ilan, with her gentle demeanor, silently observed every detail.
Finally reaching the summit, the panoramic view of the rivers' confluence stretched before us like a living tapestry. The waters sparkled in the sunlight, and the greenery surrounding the settlement painted a picture of timeless beauty. The children's eyes widened, absorbing the grandeur of Riva and the legacy it held.
The majestic sight of our navy, the floatila, gliding on the river below was both awe-inspiring and slightly awkward from our elevated vantage point. The colorful sails billowed in the wind, carrying stories of Rivenshari seafaring prowess. As we stood there, a sense of unity with our people settled upon us, a reminder of the Rivenshari's legacy of strength and resilience.
The children chattered excitedly about the sights and the tales they would share with their cousins back home. Sil, Raya, and Ilan forged memories that would become a part of their own stories in the ongoing saga of our house.
Written By Mattheu
Jan. 11, 2024, 1:28 a.m.(7/13/1021 AR)
Relationship Note on Jeffeth
there was a scarf, hair bells, and cookies.
It was a good roll withing the mud. laughter and friendship was found
It was a good roll withing the mud. laughter and friendship was found
Written By Mattheu
Jan. 6, 2024, 2 a.m.(7/3/1021 AR)
Relationship Note on Ann
I found myself writing letters to my children before embarking to a point of where distance will be a factor. It was something which I only started recently in doing. As before. Before we took land we would be upon ships. There would be times where we would board different ships to sail in opposite directions though we always knew the wind would carry our thoughts to each other. We would see each other again soon enough.
Now those days are not as sure the wind will be there to always carry the letters and thoughts as freely. Thus, I have written them down this time. There are two sets. Ima has the ones for them to read and hold dear.
To my Courageous Son, Sil,
Sil, my adventurous spirit, as the waves carry me further from home, my heart swells with pride for the incredible young man you've become. Your crown of flowers and kelp, mud-streaked hair, and stories of escapades remind me that life is a grand adventure. Be a guiding light for your siblings, and continue to infuse our home with your boundless curiosity and zest for life.
To my Fearless Princess, Raya,
Raya, regal and strong, your insistence on being a princess is a testament to the royalty that resides within you. Stand tall, my daughter, and let your strength be a beacon for your siblings. Lead with courage, and I trust that you will nurture the unity that defines our family in my absence.
To my Shy Little Star, Ilan,
Ilan, my gentle daughter, your quiet strength and whispered conversations hold a special place in my heart. Be a source of comfort for your siblings, and remember that your shy nature is a beautiful light that guides us through the darker days. Your resilience will be a comforting presence for your mother and brothers.
To My Little Explorer, Danior,
Danior, too young to understand the reasons for my departure, I leave you with a promise of love that transcends distance. Your siblings and your amazing mother will be your guides, playmates, and storytellers. Embrace the joy they bring, and know that my heart is woven into the fabric of our family's love.
Now those days are not as sure the wind will be there to always carry the letters and thoughts as freely. Thus, I have written them down this time. There are two sets. Ima has the ones for them to read and hold dear.
To my Courageous Son, Sil,
Sil, my adventurous spirit, as the waves carry me further from home, my heart swells with pride for the incredible young man you've become. Your crown of flowers and kelp, mud-streaked hair, and stories of escapades remind me that life is a grand adventure. Be a guiding light for your siblings, and continue to infuse our home with your boundless curiosity and zest for life.
To my Fearless Princess, Raya,
Raya, regal and strong, your insistence on being a princess is a testament to the royalty that resides within you. Stand tall, my daughter, and let your strength be a beacon for your siblings. Lead with courage, and I trust that you will nurture the unity that defines our family in my absence.
To my Shy Little Star, Ilan,
Ilan, my gentle daughter, your quiet strength and whispered conversations hold a special place in my heart. Be a source of comfort for your siblings, and remember that your shy nature is a beautiful light that guides us through the darker days. Your resilience will be a comforting presence for your mother and brothers.
To My Little Explorer, Danior,
Danior, too young to understand the reasons for my departure, I leave you with a promise of love that transcends distance. Your siblings and your amazing mother will be your guides, playmates, and storytellers. Embrace the joy they bring, and know that my heart is woven into the fabric of our family's love.
Written By Mattheu
Jan. 5, 2024, 12:17 p.m.(7/2/1021 AR)
Relationship Note on Ann
It's been a whirlwind of joy, laughter, and chaos in our household ever since the arrival of our youngest bundle of joy, Danior. Life with four kids is an adventure unlike any other, and I find myself marveling at the unique personalities each of them possesses.
Sil, our red-haired teenager, is a force of nature. Every day he comes home with a crown of flowers and kelp, masterpieces created by his cousins and the children who are sweet on him. His copper hair is perpetually streaked with mud, evidence of the day's escapades. Sil's zest for life is contagious, and I can't help but smile at the stories he brings home. He's growing into a remarkable young man, full of energy and boundless curiosity.
Raya and Ilan, our twelve-year-old twins, couldn't be more different. Raya insists on being treated like a princess, and her strong and stubborn spirit makes it hard to argue otherwise. She's a force to be reckoned with, and I can see the potential for leadership in her future. Ilan, on the other hand, is the quieter of the two, preferring to stay close and hide behind the nickname "Flounder" that she affectionately calls me. She whispers about her day, sharing the small victories and challenges that come with being twelve. It warms my heart to be her confidant.
And then there's little Danior, our four-month-old explorer. His curls of brown hair are a perfect match for his wide, curious eyes. He's in the midst of discovering the world around him, grabbing onto bells and scarves with unbridled enthusiasm. Every day is a new adventure for him, and I relish in witnessing his milestones – the first giggle, the first toothless grin, and the tiny hands reaching out to explore this big, beautiful world.
As I sit here reflecting on the dynamics of our growing family, I can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Each child brings a unique and irreplaceable flavor to our lives, creating a tapestry of love, laughter, and a touch of chaos that I wouldn't trade for anything. Parenthood is a journey like no other, and I'm blessed to be on this wild ride with Sil, Raya, Ilan, and our little explorer, Danior.
Sil, our red-haired teenager, is a force of nature. Every day he comes home with a crown of flowers and kelp, masterpieces created by his cousins and the children who are sweet on him. His copper hair is perpetually streaked with mud, evidence of the day's escapades. Sil's zest for life is contagious, and I can't help but smile at the stories he brings home. He's growing into a remarkable young man, full of energy and boundless curiosity.
Raya and Ilan, our twelve-year-old twins, couldn't be more different. Raya insists on being treated like a princess, and her strong and stubborn spirit makes it hard to argue otherwise. She's a force to be reckoned with, and I can see the potential for leadership in her future. Ilan, on the other hand, is the quieter of the two, preferring to stay close and hide behind the nickname "Flounder" that she affectionately calls me. She whispers about her day, sharing the small victories and challenges that come with being twelve. It warms my heart to be her confidant.
And then there's little Danior, our four-month-old explorer. His curls of brown hair are a perfect match for his wide, curious eyes. He's in the midst of discovering the world around him, grabbing onto bells and scarves with unbridled enthusiasm. Every day is a new adventure for him, and I relish in witnessing his milestones – the first giggle, the first toothless grin, and the tiny hands reaching out to explore this big, beautiful world.
As I sit here reflecting on the dynamics of our growing family, I can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Each child brings a unique and irreplaceable flavor to our lives, creating a tapestry of love, laughter, and a touch of chaos that I wouldn't trade for anything. Parenthood is a journey like no other, and I'm blessed to be on this wild ride with Sil, Raya, Ilan, and our little explorer, Danior.
Written By Mattheu
Jan. 5, 2024, 11:42 a.m.(7/2/1021 AR)
A world where our choices are finally and completely of our own. Nothing is written to lead our direction. Of what my people would call upon the winds leading us to where we were meant to be is still a solid direction for us to follow. Only we do have the ability to steer rudder as well. We're not forced to find ourselves in one location when our hearts wish us to be at another.
There are two stars which the Rivenshari look to. Have claimed as their own over the rivers around Riva. They are ours, will always be ours, you can even ask any of the Civashari. They might protect all of our nights sky, all of the choices made previous. The Lovers belong to the Rivenshari.
It is their choices which have lead us in life. Will continue to lead us.
The wind may blow to our sails and give guidance.
We will continue to fight for choice.
There are two stars which the Rivenshari look to. Have claimed as their own over the rivers around Riva. They are ours, will always be ours, you can even ask any of the Civashari. They might protect all of our nights sky, all of the choices made previous. The Lovers belong to the Rivenshari.
It is their choices which have lead us in life. Will continue to lead us.
The wind may blow to our sails and give guidance.
We will continue to fight for choice.
Written By Mattheu
Dec. 31, 2023, 3:04 p.m.(6/20/1021 AR)
Relationship Note on Ann
They are growing up quickly. Soon the three who have joined us will be of age to make their own choice to where they sit with the Rivenshari. With a young brother who will only know this life.
Similar to how my siblings and I know of two lives. My nieces and nephews only know this life as well. As much as we seek to teach them a life where dancing between boats. To run in the dark without navigation other than stars above and how each boat within the floatila sounds. To be able to climb a mast and swing from fittings.
They know more of how the land feels under their feet. And will laugh at those of us who prefer a hammock over the unmoving beds with heavy posts.
I don't know what the dream has to offer moving forwards. Just to be able to share it with those of our heart. Those who we've freely shared our heart with.
That is what matters.
Similar to how my siblings and I know of two lives. My nieces and nephews only know this life as well. As much as we seek to teach them a life where dancing between boats. To run in the dark without navigation other than stars above and how each boat within the floatila sounds. To be able to climb a mast and swing from fittings.
They know more of how the land feels under their feet. And will laugh at those of us who prefer a hammock over the unmoving beds with heavy posts.
I don't know what the dream has to offer moving forwards. Just to be able to share it with those of our heart. Those who we've freely shared our heart with.
That is what matters.
Written By Mattheu
Dec. 28, 2023, 11:32 a.m.(6/14/1021 AR)
This world is going to change faster than it ever has before. We've always known magic was something which could break us. Anyone that fought within the Silent War knows this. I don't care which side you were on, if it was to your own choice or not to do so. That is in the past.
Though it is that past which is now free. Everything which the Ravashari have sought to prevent might have been made by individuals who were seeking to better a world that they knew. To be able to restart so to say, and to be able to kill the one who we've been at war with for many of our families lifetimes. A name that can finally be spoken as a bedtime story of caution, and not one to be wary of at every turn.
We were charged to this dream to ensure another choice would not be made.
I hope that what was made brings about better and doesn't plunge us further into a darkness which we will never recover from. For that is a vision which I don't thrust upon anyone. I have lived that life briefly.
No one else should have to.
Though it is that past which is now free. Everything which the Ravashari have sought to prevent might have been made by individuals who were seeking to better a world that they knew. To be able to restart so to say, and to be able to kill the one who we've been at war with for many of our families lifetimes. A name that can finally be spoken as a bedtime story of caution, and not one to be wary of at every turn.
We were charged to this dream to ensure another choice would not be made.
I hope that what was made brings about better and doesn't plunge us further into a darkness which we will never recover from. For that is a vision which I don't thrust upon anyone. I have lived that life briefly.
No one else should have to.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.