Written By Marian
Jan. 26, 2018, 5:18 p.m.(1/16/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Fergus
I want to thank you for having been in my life. The journey we walked together changed me in many ways. You brought me such joy and happiness. I can say without a doubt that I loved you with every fiber of my being. While you were not my first love, I intended that you would be my last. We did not get to spend enough time together. We parted ways too soon. You gave me a precious gift of life. She will foster. She will grow. When she is old enough to understand the stories I tell her today. She will know her father. My regret is that you had to go before me. Perhaps to pave the way like the one that came before you. While you have rejoined the Wheel, I must continue. I have many miles to walk before I join you.
I'm still here.
I'm still here.
Written By Marian
Jan. 26, 2018, 4:51 p.m.(1/16/1008 AR)
The cold rain down upon my hair, molding it to my head as I stilled behind the tree. I could smell the moss, green earth. A rustle from the underbrush, the parting of the green foliage, followed by grunts told me that my quarry was near. He stepped out of the brush, his snout protected by piercing tusks that gleamed white even through the autumn canopy of leaves. His large, powerful body ignoring the chill in the air that spoke of winter coming soon. My own clothes, wet with rain, did not offer any protection. I shivered, not from cold but excitement as my stiff limbs are slowly moving, silently as I get into position.
Silver tipped bristles layered by blackish brown hair. This boar had lived through many battles. I saw the scars, the broken patches of skin where the fur had been torn by hard won battles. The alertness at which he took in his surroundings. This wasn't a young-ling cut off from his farrow. A warrior who had fought for his territory time and time again. My green eyes narrow as I gauge the distance. I feel the breeze and silently curse because my scent carries. While I have rolled in the mud, the rain has washed some of the camouflage away. He pounds a foot into the ground and snorts. I pause. He knows I'm there.
I burst out of my hiding place, spear raised, ready to strike...but then I look into his intense brown eyes that are the color of my mother's favorite dress. I see his knowledge that his death is near. I hesitate. I hold from striking the final blow. He does not pause in the face of his own death. He rams his tusk into my thigh and twists causing me to fall with a cry.
I plunge my spear forward. I pierce one of those raged filled eyes. I feel the sharp hooves break my skin as he tries to take me with him. I lay there covered in my own blood, covered in his blood. I smell the copper red seeping into the dew covered grass. My father comes up and looks at me laying side by side the boar. He tells me softly as I weep from my pain, "Don't ever hesitate. Because your enemy will not." Then he calls over some healers to take me away.
I will always remember that lesson. Don't hesitate...least you become one of the fallen.
Silver tipped bristles layered by blackish brown hair. This boar had lived through many battles. I saw the scars, the broken patches of skin where the fur had been torn by hard won battles. The alertness at which he took in his surroundings. This wasn't a young-ling cut off from his farrow. A warrior who had fought for his territory time and time again. My green eyes narrow as I gauge the distance. I feel the breeze and silently curse because my scent carries. While I have rolled in the mud, the rain has washed some of the camouflage away. He pounds a foot into the ground and snorts. I pause. He knows I'm there.
I burst out of my hiding place, spear raised, ready to strike...but then I look into his intense brown eyes that are the color of my mother's favorite dress. I see his knowledge that his death is near. I hesitate. I hold from striking the final blow. He does not pause in the face of his own death. He rams his tusk into my thigh and twists causing me to fall with a cry.
I plunge my spear forward. I pierce one of those raged filled eyes. I feel the sharp hooves break my skin as he tries to take me with him. I lay there covered in my own blood, covered in his blood. I smell the copper red seeping into the dew covered grass. My father comes up and looks at me laying side by side the boar. He tells me softly as I weep from my pain, "Don't ever hesitate. Because your enemy will not." Then he calls over some healers to take me away.
I will always remember that lesson. Don't hesitate...least you become one of the fallen.
Written By Marian
Jan. 21, 2018, 6:03 a.m.(1/5/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Talen
Congratulations on your twin daughters. I hope you understand that while you won the battle by having a son on the first round. She won the war because now there are three against two.
Written By Marian
Jan. 21, 2018, 5:48 a.m.(1/5/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Eleyna
Congratulations on your twin daughters. Now Talen has three lovely ladies to protect and love.
Written By Marian
Jan. 21, 2018, 5:12 a.m.(1/5/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Monique
I am in awe of the sheer logistics and time management that it took baby sister for you to pull off this Glittering Gala. While you have complained in the past that you are in the shadows. Love, if you ever make that claim again, I will beat you because you shined last night as the hostess of the event. I wouldn't be surprised if social mavens are claiming this was the event of the season. I can see all the hard work you put into it.
And you got secretly married? Damn you baby sister. I invited you to both my weddings. I wanted to see you walk down that isle. I wanted to see you speak those vows. Cause watching you bloom since you met Corban has been a guilty pleasure of mine.
Yes, we will agree to disagree on many things in the past, the now and probably in the future. Baby sister, know I will always love you. I can not wait for you and Corban to have your first child. I hope the child is exactly like you.
And you got secretly married? Damn you baby sister. I invited you to both my weddings. I wanted to see you walk down that isle. I wanted to see you speak those vows. Cause watching you bloom since you met Corban has been a guilty pleasure of mine.
Yes, we will agree to disagree on many things in the past, the now and probably in the future. Baby sister, know I will always love you. I can not wait for you and Corban to have your first child. I hope the child is exactly like you.
Written By Marian
Jan. 14, 2018, 6:59 p.m.(12/20/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Astraea
I have no intention of dying anytime soon. I appreciate your concern.
Written By Marian
Jan. 10, 2018, 4:56 p.m.(12/10/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Monique
The Greenwood in the morning light when a gentle breeze stirs the trees. If you listen close, you can almost hear the ancient oaks gossiping to each other. A squirrel scurries in the undergrowth, looking for precious snacks to be saved by winter. A stag with twelve points stands guard over a doe and fawn. Rays of sunlight punch through the canopy of trees, the dew sparkling in the green grass. A gentle brook brings soft music when mixed with the robin's song. An older redheaded girl stands so still that her muscles shake as she plays hide and seek with her younger brother and sister.
Written By Marian
Jan. 10, 2018, 4:35 p.m.(12/10/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Eleyna
They say love is a beautiful thing
Because of the joy that it brings.
Sweet nothings and gentle sighs
Hang on the poets' lyrical designs.
But I think these bards did miss
A brand of love with a sharper kiss.
Stand clear of their cuts and snipes
Don't ever claim that love is just nice.
Vases thrown, swords drawn and clash
Champions called, quick tempers crash.
Competition, deception, dark passion
Done with poise and scandalous fashion.
Because of the joy that it brings.
Sweet nothings and gentle sighs
Hang on the poets' lyrical designs.
But I think these bards did miss
A brand of love with a sharper kiss.
Stand clear of their cuts and snipes
Don't ever claim that love is just nice.
Vases thrown, swords drawn and clash
Champions called, quick tempers crash.
Competition, deception, dark passion
Done with poise and scandalous fashion.
Written By Marian
Jan. 10, 2018, 2:27 a.m.(12/8/1007 AR)
Prayer to the Goddess of Air and Water
Bring your winds, your biting air
There is no time for gentle breezes
Crash your waves, drown your enemies
Calm waters are not what's needed
Carry your devote, show them the way
To sail a clear path through dark waters
Mangata, bring the waves, the biting wind, and I will bring my sword to defend your Faithful.
Bring your winds, your biting air
There is no time for gentle breezes
Crash your waves, drown your enemies
Calm waters are not what's needed
Carry your devote, show them the way
To sail a clear path through dark waters
Mangata, bring the waves, the biting wind, and I will bring my sword to defend your Faithful.
Written By Marian
Jan. 10, 2018, 2:27 a.m.(12/8/1007 AR)
Prayer to the Goddess of Air and Water
Bring your winds, your biting air
There is no time for gentle breezes
Crash your waves, drown your enemies
Calm waters are not what's needed
Carry your devote, show them the way
To sail a clear path through dark waters
Mangata, bring the waves, the biting wind, and I will bring my sword to defend your Faithful.
Bring your winds, your biting air
There is no time for gentle breezes
Crash your waves, drown your enemies
Calm waters are not what's needed
Carry your devote, show them the way
To sail a clear path through dark waters
Mangata, bring the waves, the biting wind, and I will bring my sword to defend your Faithful.
Written By Marian
Jan. 5, 2018, 4:22 p.m.(11/28/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Sparte
House Thrax is lucky to have him. I hope High Lord Victus knows that or I might be tempted to pop over to the Thrax ward and try to tempt Officer Sparte Fatchforth to walk on the bear side of the tracks.
Written By Marian
Jan. 5, 2018, 4:18 p.m.(11/28/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Caelis
If you're looking for labor support for when the babe is born, I would look no further than Lady Reigna Keaton. She's got knowledge in herbs and medical arts. I'm sure if you asked, she would happily offer her help.
Written By Marian
Jan. 1, 2018, 12:18 p.m.(11/17/1007 AR)
War comes to the Compact again. Now is the time to put aside petty differences. Even with those houses that so differ from your own. Divided we will fall so together we must stand.
Written By Marian
Jan. 1, 2018, 12:18 p.m.(11/17/1007 AR)
War comes to the Compact again. Now is the time to put aside petty differences. Even with those houses that so differ from your own. Divided we will fall so together we must stand.
Written By Marian
Dec. 26, 2017, 6:47 a.m.(11/5/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Shard
Concepts like alpha, beta and omega were developed by scholars who were wishing to understand the social dynamics of pack animals. Yes, the theory was originally created using wolves as an example. I have seen this flawed theory applied to other groupings. Interestingly enough, the creator of this theory came back and disavowed the theory because...and this is key...it only applied to pack animals in captivity.
You see when you capture an animal, force it to live outside of the wild, he or she changes. He or she becomes more aggressive like the alpha or on the other extreme seeks the protection from the aggressors, like the omega. Territories or 'safe' areas are smaller. Resources are limited. Fear is a mainstay. Understand social dynamics change based on context. Captivity is what brings out the 'asshole' alpha. Not species or even gender. Not being a member of a family or pack.
That's where these concepts come from Shard. From watching healthy wolf families fracture under the stress of living in cruel captivity where resources are limited. It is not a badge of honor. It is a brutal social status obtained in the face of horror.
You see when you capture an animal, force it to live outside of the wild, he or she changes. He or she becomes more aggressive like the alpha or on the other extreme seeks the protection from the aggressors, like the omega. Territories or 'safe' areas are smaller. Resources are limited. Fear is a mainstay. Understand social dynamics change based on context. Captivity is what brings out the 'asshole' alpha. Not species or even gender. Not being a member of a family or pack.
That's where these concepts come from Shard. From watching healthy wolf families fracture under the stress of living in cruel captivity where resources are limited. It is not a badge of honor. It is a brutal social status obtained in the face of horror.
Written By Marian
Dec. 25, 2017, 10:27 p.m.(11/4/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Victus
I find that when I'm drunk it's best that I put down the pen. Nothing good ever comes of it.
Written By Marian
Dec. 23, 2017, 11:49 a.m.(10/27/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Killian
I did not know him in life but I will remember his sacrifice. He helped rid Arx of those foul zealots that murdered Zhayla.
My prayers are with his family and friends that mourn his loss.
My prayers are with his family and friends that mourn his loss.
Written By Marian
Dec. 23, 2017, 11:11 a.m.(10/27/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Zhayla
We were suppose to go sparring later that day. Right before the attack, she called out to me and I waved to let her know that we were still on because I was engaged in conversation with another noble. When the stranger asked me about Deepwood, I held no suspicions. I merely pointed my friend out, even called her over because the man was seeking directions to the manor. Perhaps if I had been more aware of the dangers, I would have done more to protect her before the attack. My lack of vigilance is a regret that I hold.
It happened so quickly. One moment the man was confronting Zhayla and the next releasing the dogs. I drew my sword and attacked one of the zealots. My diamond-plate sword did little to no damage. She fell to the dogs' claws and teeth within seconds. My efforts to get to her, to kill the dogs were in vain. My only recourse was to try to draw their attention, to use my martial skill to show myself as their biggest threat so the others could get away. I guess I did my job a little too well.
I am still here. I have no idea why the Gods spared me and not Zhayla. I am not more noble, more deserving. We both have roots as shavs. We both have served our houses well. I know by all rights I should have died that day. But I am still here and Zhayla is not. While I mourn for her loss, I am grateful to be alive. For those that were not there that day, she fought well. Celebrate the sheer martial skill and bravery that this prodigal carried when you attend her funeral. I may not be well enough to attend her wake but I will be there in spirit.
Please give prayers for Aksel Nygard who also fell that day and is recovering at the House of Solace. I do not wish any flowers or gifts to be sent. If you desire to offer anything, please send any donations to the House of Solace who's timely efforts saved my life.
It happened so quickly. One moment the man was confronting Zhayla and the next releasing the dogs. I drew my sword and attacked one of the zealots. My diamond-plate sword did little to no damage. She fell to the dogs' claws and teeth within seconds. My efforts to get to her, to kill the dogs were in vain. My only recourse was to try to draw their attention, to use my martial skill to show myself as their biggest threat so the others could get away. I guess I did my job a little too well.
I am still here. I have no idea why the Gods spared me and not Zhayla. I am not more noble, more deserving. We both have roots as shavs. We both have served our houses well. I know by all rights I should have died that day. But I am still here and Zhayla is not. While I mourn for her loss, I am grateful to be alive. For those that were not there that day, she fought well. Celebrate the sheer martial skill and bravery that this prodigal carried when you attend her funeral. I may not be well enough to attend her wake but I will be there in spirit.
Please give prayers for Aksel Nygard who also fell that day and is recovering at the House of Solace. I do not wish any flowers or gifts to be sent. If you desire to offer anything, please send any donations to the House of Solace who's timely efforts saved my life.
Written By Marian
Dec. 19, 2017, 7:15 p.m.(10/20/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Victus
I foresee play dates with swords and shields in our future. Congrats my friend for the birth of your daughter who is by far the perfect mix of you and your wife.
Written By Marian
Dec. 18, 2017, 4:42 p.m.(10/18/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Reigna
May I suggest taking up the sword and beating someone with it? It may not solve the issue that so enraged you but it does release that rage in a conductive manner. If you wish some instruction on how to handle a sword, I'm sure your husband can assist. Or I can offer my own teaching.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.