Written By Delilah
Aug. 20, 2018, 11:08 p.m.(6/8/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Bianca
I am ever grateful for the wisdom and guidance provided by Archlector Bianca. How she cut through the Lycene knot of my thoughts, and provided practical advice at the moment it was most needed. I nearly feel guilty taking her away from her dinner with Count Duarte, but perchance both shall forgive me.
Now, finally, I set my foot on the very long path waiting for me all these days and weeks.
And it's time to take that nap.
Now, finally, I set my foot on the very long path waiting for me all these days and weeks.
And it's time to take that nap.
Written By Delilah
Aug. 20, 2018, 11:03 a.m.(6/6/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Valerio
With solemn joy comes sharp-edged pain,
At what we lost so all might gain.
Valerio Mazetti, I will remember you long after you have walked Arx. How was it only weeks ago you and Felicia heaved on ropes at Princess Valeria's spring games while I sang of the strength of your sword arm and your endurance?
Had I known then how little time remained for me to share in your laughter and learn more of the spirit that animated you, I might pay better tribute now.
I confess not to know you nigh so well as others, but you showed such a warmth and welcome. Not all men and women drawn to a martial lifestyle display easy confidence, encouraging even flighty noblewomen to engage in a competition over strength of arms. Your generosity in spirit lives on, gilding memories that hold a bright patina yet.
And to know that you sacrificed yourself for the good of another proves utterly the quality of your character. You did your duty and that debt we cannot repay. The Queen embrace you, and the Mother reward you for your service. You will not be forgotten.
At what we lost so all might gain.
Valerio Mazetti, I will remember you long after you have walked Arx. How was it only weeks ago you and Felicia heaved on ropes at Princess Valeria's spring games while I sang of the strength of your sword arm and your endurance?
Had I known then how little time remained for me to share in your laughter and learn more of the spirit that animated you, I might pay better tribute now.
I confess not to know you nigh so well as others, but you showed such a warmth and welcome. Not all men and women drawn to a martial lifestyle display easy confidence, encouraging even flighty noblewomen to engage in a competition over strength of arms. Your generosity in spirit lives on, gilding memories that hold a bright patina yet.
And to know that you sacrificed yourself for the good of another proves utterly the quality of your character. You did your duty and that debt we cannot repay. The Queen embrace you, and the Mother reward you for your service. You will not be forgotten.
Written By Delilah
Aug. 19, 2018, 12:39 a.m.(6/4/1009 AR)
::New Mythologies::
We will dance together on
The edge of night,
The shimmer-woven decadence of time,
Rings where oblivion tips its face into the black sea
And rises from the western night.
For I know truly
That immortality is only found
Where our feet dip in the shadows
And your smile is the only light I seek.
We will dance together on
The edge of night,
The shimmer-woven decadence of time,
Rings where oblivion tips its face into the black sea
And rises from the western night.
For I know truly
That immortality is only found
Where our feet dip in the shadows
And your smile is the only light I seek.
Written By Delilah
Aug. 17, 2018, 4:31 p.m.(6/1/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Sabella
Princess Sabella raises art to a new level.
Written By Delilah
Aug. 17, 2018, 9:10 a.m.(6/1/1009 AR)
In my mother tongue,
There are a thousand words
For joy,
A hundred songs
For night,
But only one
worthy of you.
There are a thousand words
For joy,
A hundred songs
For night,
But only one
worthy of you.
Written By Delilah
Aug. 16, 2018, 9:29 a.m.(5/27/1009 AR)
Perhaps too much port was involved, and no actual offense intended against the honoured Guildmistress Joscelin and her most devoted, capable members. They produce great works.
However, I may have inadvertently created the chorus for a comedy of errors, or a social commentary, probably for a stage play. The obsession with a new stone and silk -- all the silks -- convulses a faraway city. The rage bankrupts coffers and does far worse, I think. This chorus inevitably belongs to a gentleman trying to knock sense into his peers. Success is not clear. Blame lies squarely at the feet of The Muse.
Ballad of the Silk Artisans
Time to put the silk clothing obsession down
Take a look around
Find other ways to make silver
Let artists claim Umbra and aeterna you found,
Leave making fancy garments and jewelry now
You were never a crafter
Nobles
do the politics
Maybe parties
But not this
Constant crafting
Shop staffing
Caught by your reflections, a sign of prestige,
Willingly fixated by anything shimmering
You flock like crows
On anything glittering.
But you are still a noble.
You are still
Noble.
o/`
However, I may have inadvertently created the chorus for a comedy of errors, or a social commentary, probably for a stage play. The obsession with a new stone and silk -- all the silks -- convulses a faraway city. The rage bankrupts coffers and does far worse, I think. This chorus inevitably belongs to a gentleman trying to knock sense into his peers. Success is not clear. Blame lies squarely at the feet of The Muse.
Ballad of the Silk Artisans
Time to put the silk clothing obsession down
Take a look around
Find other ways to make silver
Let artists claim Umbra and aeterna you found,
Leave making fancy garments and jewelry now
You were never a crafter
Nobles
do the politics
Maybe parties
But not this
Constant crafting
Shop staffing
Caught by your reflections, a sign of prestige,
Willingly fixated by anything shimmering
You flock like crows
On anything glittering.
But you are still a noble.
You are still
Noble.
o/`
Written By Delilah
Aug. 13, 2018, 1:32 p.m.(5/21/1009 AR)
The lengths to which we will strive for happiness deserve a moment of consideration. Spend some time while the tea brews or the server pours the wine into your glass, putting mind to but a single thought. Focusing so fully requires an effort, to be sure. It cannot be done whilst conversing with your dining companions or impatiently awaiting the arrival of a messenger.
Some in our society willingly devote hours of their time to slaying the beasts of paperwork and bureaucracy, that a fledgling organization may find equilibrium and focus their outreach upon those in need. Some brave the ghastly conditions found in untended woods or sick houses in the Lowers or impoverished shav'arvani villages, fearless despite risks to their own persons, to better deliver sought-after respite and resources.
A countless number of tasks await to improve the lot of one or many. The burden seems impossible, for even putting a few coins into charity seems but a pebble to the immense mountain range confronting me. But is it entirely so hopeless? I would hope not. Ask the Iron Guardsman delivering bread for a hungry family, in hopes their bellies may be full, and thus deprived the temptation to pilfer a loaf from the market. Ask the princess painstakingly developing a plan to better education among those so long without, they might seem unteachable. Ask the merchant with a kind word and a steady hand for anyone seeking assistance.
For all that shadows stretch over our city, and our land --
For all that the conversation turns to lighter topics that somehow seem to ignore the troubles beneath --
For all that quarrels and cares may prove petty held up to this mirror --
So many accomplish tremendous good, and tremendous things, day by day, unsung by the bard's, unknown save to those who receive their benevolence or witness the aftereffects when they return home.
Spare but a thought. Gratitude comes not far behind.
Then open the door, step out, and change your world.
Some in our society willingly devote hours of their time to slaying the beasts of paperwork and bureaucracy, that a fledgling organization may find equilibrium and focus their outreach upon those in need. Some brave the ghastly conditions found in untended woods or sick houses in the Lowers or impoverished shav'arvani villages, fearless despite risks to their own persons, to better deliver sought-after respite and resources.
A countless number of tasks await to improve the lot of one or many. The burden seems impossible, for even putting a few coins into charity seems but a pebble to the immense mountain range confronting me. But is it entirely so hopeless? I would hope not. Ask the Iron Guardsman delivering bread for a hungry family, in hopes their bellies may be full, and thus deprived the temptation to pilfer a loaf from the market. Ask the princess painstakingly developing a plan to better education among those so long without, they might seem unteachable. Ask the merchant with a kind word and a steady hand for anyone seeking assistance.
For all that shadows stretch over our city, and our land --
For all that the conversation turns to lighter topics that somehow seem to ignore the troubles beneath --
For all that quarrels and cares may prove petty held up to this mirror --
So many accomplish tremendous good, and tremendous things, day by day, unsung by the bard's, unknown save to those who receive their benevolence or witness the aftereffects when they return home.
Spare but a thought. Gratitude comes not far behind.
Then open the door, step out, and change your world.
Written By Delilah
Aug. 11, 2018, 12:39 p.m.(5/17/1009 AR)
I've found the perfect blend of spices for this scent. If mad alchemy leaves the manor adrift in wafting banks of smoke and fragrant ruin, I admit it was worth it.
Written By Delilah
Aug. 9, 2018, 11:10 p.m.(5/14/1009 AR)
::Phlogiston::
If I shall not write
my name in iron gall
Then I will inscribe
my fate in vermeil.
If I shall not write
my name in iron gall
Then I will inscribe
my fate in vermeil.
Written By Delilah
Aug. 7, 2018, 12:08 a.m.(5/5/1009 AR)
I've come to discover a certain rhythm to my days that settles me into a satisfying groove. The same companions in the mornings at varied coffee shops bring endlessly enjoyable conversation on matters high and low. Over cups of tea or those lavender lattes I am woefully in favour of, I have discussed the best flowers for spring or the similarities of hosting a large-scale ball to a military campaign -- entertaining for the poor soldier asked to match my thoughts on that, no less.
The insights that come over the tables or in the gardens as the day progressed have opened my eyes to plights of people in the Lowers, lands ravaged by war or the high costs of administrating a significant part of the Compact. No one is without their valuable lessons to impart in the drift of good company.
I'm continually amazed at the diversity of thoughts and interests in this city.
Laurent, incidentally, is in very good hands.
The insights that come over the tables or in the gardens as the day progressed have opened my eyes to plights of people in the Lowers, lands ravaged by war or the high costs of administrating a significant part of the Compact. No one is without their valuable lessons to impart in the drift of good company.
I'm continually amazed at the diversity of thoughts and interests in this city.
Laurent, incidentally, is in very good hands.
Written By Delilah
Aug. 6, 2018, 11:59 p.m.(5/3/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Harper
I finally met my sister's keeper... or rather, her partner in keeping the city safe. Every day out there, they patrol through streets not always disposed warmly towards the Iron Guard. I've watched the consequences for their return on certain weary afternoons, and say what they will, the service takes a toll. Quiet erosion of ignorance in their eyes, the slip of the shoulders from one burden too many.
What troubles affect the Lowers these days, we need all the coordinated assistance and efforts we can get.
Harper is the person who acts as moon to my sister's sun, and helps counterbalance her in action. It's hard to fathom how much they do together, theirs being a world for which I barely know. But she is a good person. I like her. And I credit them both for taking on an enormous task with grace and style.
What troubles affect the Lowers these days, we need all the coordinated assistance and efforts we can get.
Harper is the person who acts as moon to my sister's sun, and helps counterbalance her in action. It's hard to fathom how much they do together, theirs being a world for which I barely know. But she is a good person. I like her. And I credit them both for taking on an enormous task with grace and style.
Written By Delilah
Aug. 5, 2018, 11:19 p.m.(5/1/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Valerio
You did not fail us, Lord Valerio. If nothing else, it was a stellar introduction.
We worked superbly as a team with the aid of Dame Felicia. Does it matter that the three-way with that rope turned out somewhat less victoriously than we may have minded? We didn't end up in a bind, and we made new friends, so I consider it a smashing success.
To Lycene wit, Thraxian resilience, and Crownlander panache!
We worked superbly as a team with the aid of Dame Felicia. Does it matter that the three-way with that rope turned out somewhat less victoriously than we may have minded? We didn't end up in a bind, and we made new friends, so I consider it a smashing success.
To Lycene wit, Thraxian resilience, and Crownlander panache!
Written By Delilah
Aug. 5, 2018, 11:17 p.m.(5/1/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Zoey
I am so incredibly proud of you. Your eye for luxuries and harmonious creations has always been tremendous, and you've gone and proven yourself to a grand stage.
Congratulations, darling!
Congratulations, darling!
Written By Delilah
Aug. 4, 2018, 11:33 p.m.(4/27/1009 AR)
Note to self - Velenosan princesses are considerably dangerous when engaged in tugs-of-war.
Note to self - Singing while inspiring rope pullers could be considered to be remarkably good exercise, and I should pursue this with Kenna!
Note to self - Singing while inspiring rope pullers could be considered to be remarkably good exercise, and I should pursue this with Kenna!
Written By Delilah
Aug. 3, 2018, 3:23 p.m.(4/25/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Tabitha
It's still not too late to bring home an orphan, you know.
We have all these rooms and plenty of time -- well, some of us -- to see to providing a healthy, wholesome environment for a child to thrive.
We have all these rooms and plenty of time -- well, some of us -- to see to providing a healthy, wholesome environment for a child to thrive.
Written By Delilah
Aug. 3, 2018, 3:21 p.m.(4/25/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Fecundo
Sound information that needs to be commonplace for all those considering a venture forth over the sea or into the woods or plains.
Even within the walls of a city, trouble may strike unexpectedly. Preparations in advance often determine the difference between disaster and escaping with minor damage or no harm at all.
Check your provisions. Do not rely on someone else preparing them for you, check them yourself. Understand how to use the equipment you have. It is no good having a rope without the least idea of how to effectively tie a knot or a lantern without the correct oil to fuel it. In cold climes, warm clothes and blankets are essential, but so too is a way to have liquid water. Melting snow can expend considerable fuel, which may be scarce, and eating ice or snow can greatly reduce one's body temperature. Easy way to die overnight.
Lord Rubino strikes on the key point above all: a plan. Have a good idea of what to do. Have a better idea when things go wrong.
Even within the walls of a city, trouble may strike unexpectedly. Preparations in advance often determine the difference between disaster and escaping with minor damage or no harm at all.
Check your provisions. Do not rely on someone else preparing them for you, check them yourself. Understand how to use the equipment you have. It is no good having a rope without the least idea of how to effectively tie a knot or a lantern without the correct oil to fuel it. In cold climes, warm clothes and blankets are essential, but so too is a way to have liquid water. Melting snow can expend considerable fuel, which may be scarce, and eating ice or snow can greatly reduce one's body temperature. Easy way to die overnight.
Lord Rubino strikes on the key point above all: a plan. Have a good idea of what to do. Have a better idea when things go wrong.
Written By Delilah
Aug. 2, 2018, 3:39 p.m.(4/23/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Aurora
There hasn't been a day in the city where I have seen such activity surrounding the business of dresses. Long gowns of seasick dyed the softest sunset shades that bloom like roses, and bold, swirling creations of metal that somehow transform into something made less and more spectacular when considering the diaphanous nature of a dress that could somehow turn hard and unforgiving.
I watch how these garments get no sooner hung from a rack or a dummy than half the noble women in the city descend to reap their due. Have we any further proof that the wardrobes are being emptied, and the sublime designs made by Mistresses Aurora or Petal become the completely needed thing this very instant?
It's a wonder someone hasn't been reduced to clawing and scratching in defense of their acquisition. And for very good reason -- see how beautiful and delicate those frocks are, and it's no surprise we have a redux of the Ladies' War of 1008 AR.
In other words, last spring.
I watch how these garments get no sooner hung from a rack or a dummy than half the noble women in the city descend to reap their due. Have we any further proof that the wardrobes are being emptied, and the sublime designs made by Mistresses Aurora or Petal become the completely needed thing this very instant?
It's a wonder someone hasn't been reduced to clawing and scratching in defense of their acquisition. And for very good reason -- see how beautiful and delicate those frocks are, and it's no surprise we have a redux of the Ladies' War of 1008 AR.
In other words, last spring.
Written By Delilah
Aug. 2, 2018, 2:49 p.m.(4/23/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Corbit
We both thrashed out the possibilities of what our senior scholar projects may be. I'm not sure I'm that much closer to deciphering what kind of topic I wish to present to the assembled senior Scholars and Bianca, but I hope that Lord Corbit feels more secure in his choice.
Without spoiling it publicly, I find his talents will no doubt be well-suited to whatever method of inquiry he wishes to make. If he sticks with the subject we discussed at the Ambassador Salon, there could be tremors that reshape our understanding of the city itself.
Without spoiling it publicly, I find his talents will no doubt be well-suited to whatever method of inquiry he wishes to make. If he sticks with the subject we discussed at the Ambassador Salon, there could be tremors that reshape our understanding of the city itself.
Written By Delilah
Aug. 2, 2018, 2:46 p.m.(4/23/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Sparte
If it makes you feel better, having a stronger command of storytelling frequently produces more salient arguments and clearer statements. You can present your ideas descriptive and find the missing holes in the narrative.
In our line of work, that's a valuable thing.
In our line of work, that's a valuable thing.
Written By Delilah
Aug. 1, 2018, 4:52 p.m.(4/21/1009 AR)
I will stop drinking the ocean. I will find a straw and glass, as it were. The mantra for the week.
Strong advice from someone with a better rooted view of things than currently I possess. After all the work I've done this week, my head spinning. How can I keep everything into neat, straight lines of logical inquiry? Possibly not possible, and something to be accepted. Like so many other subjects in Arvum, things rarely line up into neat columns that balance at the end. There will be holes and gaps. Any scholar learns to deal with a certain degree of uncertainty or vagueness if they want to keep their heads at all.
I hate the vagueness. Give me concrete scraps that I can blend together in a strong weaving, something that will hold up to scrutiny and examination. Not this round.
Having forged what sounded like a reasonably understandable hypothesis, I found out the hypothesis was largely true. The weight of evidence is enormous, beyond the scope of the question I asked. I took three steps back with the evidence and promptly realized I had barely touched the tip of the subject. So much for making frosting, I've got a cake the size of the royal banquet table to figure out. These ideas don't scale easily.
Back to the drawing board for a few notions. If anyone finds me asleep in a park, they'll understand why.
One of my theories was utterly rewritten by excellent data, some mild changes and now I'm ready to say my eyes bleed red and sting from the lack of sleep.
The call to the horizon so very strong. The challenge in learning leaves and pages from a dozen books, ones you know are connected somehow by some common author, is following a thread that makes any sense. And I'm fairly sure I make a poor scholar at this point.
Strong advice from someone with a better rooted view of things than currently I possess. After all the work I've done this week, my head spinning. How can I keep everything into neat, straight lines of logical inquiry? Possibly not possible, and something to be accepted. Like so many other subjects in Arvum, things rarely line up into neat columns that balance at the end. There will be holes and gaps. Any scholar learns to deal with a certain degree of uncertainty or vagueness if they want to keep their heads at all.
I hate the vagueness. Give me concrete scraps that I can blend together in a strong weaving, something that will hold up to scrutiny and examination. Not this round.
Having forged what sounded like a reasonably understandable hypothesis, I found out the hypothesis was largely true. The weight of evidence is enormous, beyond the scope of the question I asked. I took three steps back with the evidence and promptly realized I had barely touched the tip of the subject. So much for making frosting, I've got a cake the size of the royal banquet table to figure out. These ideas don't scale easily.
Back to the drawing board for a few notions. If anyone finds me asleep in a park, they'll understand why.
One of my theories was utterly rewritten by excellent data, some mild changes and now I'm ready to say my eyes bleed red and sting from the lack of sleep.
The call to the horizon so very strong. The challenge in learning leaves and pages from a dozen books, ones you know are connected somehow by some common author, is following a thread that makes any sense. And I'm fairly sure I make a poor scholar at this point.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.