Written By Thea
Jan. 14, 2024, 7:42 p.m.(7/21/1021 AR)
More changes are coming. Drake will be thrilled!
Written By Raymesin
Jan. 14, 2024, 7:31 p.m.(7/21/1021 AR)
I have suggested that the Iron Guard commander call the populace to arms, Scholar. There's still a little time to teach them how to use the tools of their trades as weapons, still a little time to give them what equipment we can. Let the common folks who have the will step forward to defend their city against the monster that kept us in ignorance for centuries and forced us to forget our best and brightest.
Written By Khanne
Jan. 14, 2024, 6:42 p.m.(7/21/1021 AR)
Relationship Note on Titus
I write all day; messenger after messenger; submitting my thoughts to the journals for Vellichor's strength.
I have meetings and talks, asking what-ifs, and conceptualizing ideas that may just be crazy enough to work. I work with others to create Plan A, B, C... as many as are needed.
I feel like a human dust devil, spinning and spinning so I can face as many directions at once...
... then I pause a moment to scan the whites and see your words.
My Titus,
All at once, I am centered. I am focused. You leave me speechless, but feeling strong, proud of everything I have built, we are building, all of Arvum has built and will keep building. You remind me to focus on the one thing I shall never let go of.
Hope.
I will stand, as you say - with courage, determination, unyielding resolve, and with honor. I will stand not to preserve my own life, but to protect the future for all of us and for those future generations to know our stories.
I will stand with you beside me even if we are not in the same place.
I will stand.
TO THE LAST!
I have meetings and talks, asking what-ifs, and conceptualizing ideas that may just be crazy enough to work. I work with others to create Plan A, B, C... as many as are needed.
I feel like a human dust devil, spinning and spinning so I can face as many directions at once...
... then I pause a moment to scan the whites and see your words.
My Titus,
All at once, I am centered. I am focused. You leave me speechless, but feeling strong, proud of everything I have built, we are building, all of Arvum has built and will keep building. You remind me to focus on the one thing I shall never let go of.
Hope.
I will stand, as you say - with courage, determination, unyielding resolve, and with honor. I will stand not to preserve my own life, but to protect the future for all of us and for those future generations to know our stories.
I will stand with you beside me even if we are not in the same place.
I will stand.
TO THE LAST!
Written By Thea
Jan. 14, 2024, 6:33 p.m.(7/21/1021 AR)
There are some days where I feel like I haven't accomplished everything I've wanted, but then I look at what I HAVE done and well...
I've done so much. I need to learn not to rush. That's always been a fault of mine, to want to get things done quickly. But the best things take time, and I know that.
I've done so much. I need to learn not to rush. That's always been a fault of mine, to want to get things done quickly. But the best things take time, and I know that.
Written By Amari
Jan. 14, 2024, 3:58 p.m.(7/21/1021 AR)
Relationship Note on Mabelle
I am overjoyed that you've secured a goodly marriage to a proper Oathlander of a reputable house. I know you will make a splash as Marquessa Mabelle Harthall, and this union will bring unimaginable prosperity to Fair Harbour. The wedding too, will be spectacularly and fittingly grandiose. I'm looking forward to it.
Now it would be terribly selfish of me to say all that, and yet still wish that you'd not leave your present home and House. So I'll not do it, even if it is strange to imagine you as residing elsewhere, and no longer answering to the name, Lady Mabelle Laurent. Everything is changing!
So my friend, please try not to set fire to anything in your new home on the islands, and may the gods bless you and House Harthall.
Now it would be terribly selfish of me to say all that, and yet still wish that you'd not leave your present home and House. So I'll not do it, even if it is strange to imagine you as residing elsewhere, and no longer answering to the name, Lady Mabelle Laurent. Everything is changing!
So my friend, please try not to set fire to anything in your new home on the islands, and may the gods bless you and House Harthall.
Written By Mabelle
Jan. 14, 2024, 1:18 a.m.(7/19/1021 AR)
Everything feels rushed.
A lot to accomplish, things to hide, to preserve, to protect.
Leave a mark. Make sure you are remembered.
I regret nothing.
A lot to accomplish, things to hide, to preserve, to protect.
Leave a mark. Make sure you are remembered.
I regret nothing.
Written By Lisebet
Jan. 14, 2024, 12:27 a.m.(7/19/1021 AR)
I find myself reflecting on things, as I look at my children playing. The choices made and not made. I hope that they will have the opportunity to one day make such choices for themselves. And so, there are things to be done, more choices to make.
Gladly.
Freely.
Despite the fear and worry.
Or maybe because of them.
Gladly.
Freely.
Despite the fear and worry.
Or maybe because of them.
Written By Medeia
Jan. 13, 2024, 11 p.m.(7/19/1021 AR)
This story is incomplete, with some parts yet uncovered and others yet to come, but it is as complete as I can make it without taking from others what is not mine to give.
Many, many years ago, there was a woman named Livia. She had a Cardian father, but she grew up with her mother's people - fire khati. She was, I believe, happy. For a time. As so many others have, Livia found her life turned upside down and inside out by war. She lost nearly everything - her home and her husband included - when conflict raged between groups of fire khati. She tried to fight, she tried to save her people, but in the end? There was a terrible choice to make: Stay and die or run and live.
Livia was pregnant - twin boys, she would come to find out, something she could only learn by fleeing. But before she could meet her sons, she met Cynara. I don't fully know how Livia came to be standing in that field, those memories are lost to me. I don't fully know how Cynara came to be there, either - some vagaries of the Dream and magic and the Queen's weaving of souls surely all come together in this. But the unexpected pair did find themselves both in this field at the same time, both bearing broken hearts and carrying the weight of devastating losses. These women, so alike and so different, made world-changing promises to one another.
And Livia became the first Livy, the progenitor of that family line in Cardia. She birthed her sons. Her sons started families. And so on and so on, through the generations, until now. Many of you know the Livy name because of Petraea. Her choice, when having to choose, was to stay and die. It might sound crass when I say it like that, but few things inspire more grief in me than that choice.
I never actually met Petraea, not really. This is one of my deepest regrets. The first time I ever saw her, I bristled. She stood before a meeting of Lycenes to discuss the embassy of the Scales now found in our ward. Fear and anger filled me. How could we dare accept such a thing?
Ignorance robbed me of something I can never know but might have been truly beautiful.
You see, I had no interest in knowing any Cardians. The idea of sitting in a room with one felt like a death sentence. It's hard to know who can be trusted when your entire family is marked for death. This, too, is another thing I don't know: Why has the king of the Skylords declared that Saik should be eradicated?
I did not trust her. I did not trust the overtures of alliance. Years passed, and I avoided her.
The last time I saw her, she was running forward on the field of battle outside of Arx when Helena Thornweave brought the Metallic Traitor's fight to us. Even toward the back, coordinating the medics, I could feel the heat of the towering inferno she had created to thin the enemy numbers. When she collapsed in the end, I found myself running to her side, kneeling down to see if there was anything to be done. She wasn't dead, not yet, but a sacrifice is a sacrifice. I watched as she crumbled. I bore her ash home on my armor.
Whomever you are reading this, I suspect you are wondering why I ran to her side. The answer is Livia. Or Cynara. Or me. All three, I suppose. Women shaped by tragedy, bearing fire within our very beings, connected by our souls across the bounds of time.
My first hint of this connection came while in the market one day. I was admiring some jewelry when a uniquely gorgeous woman caught my eye. One moment, I was aware of how very red her hair was, and the next I was on the back of a dragon, soaring through the air and feeling more free than I have ever felt, even with the sounds of battle around me. When that feeling cleared, the woman was gone. But I couldn't shake the sense that I needed to find her again.
The hunt for information gave me a name, and a tentatively written letter produced a confirmation. A few more letters, and I found myself forcefully chipping away at the distrust and unease that had built up around me over time, trying to gain insight into what was happening. I knew, somehow, these women were woven into the fabric of my life. And so, I had wanted to save Petraea when I saw her flames go out.
I learned the truth at Petraea's memorial. Cynara and I had not seen each other since the market. My steps faltered - not for fear but for heartache. Still, I stood before the crowd and spoke, acknowledging that I had been unjust, that I had regrets. And then I was in a field. Some other time. Some other place. Some other person. Lost and pregnant and facing a red dragon. With a blink, I was back at the memorial. Everything had shattered within me. When I finally had gathered myself to leave, Cynara caught me by the arm, and everyone there learned the same: I was the first Livy.
We face impossible things. And I find myself thinking about Livia and Petraea a lot. I pray that I am able to strike some balance between them, I pray that I can stay and live.
Many, many years ago, there was a woman named Livia. She had a Cardian father, but she grew up with her mother's people - fire khati. She was, I believe, happy. For a time. As so many others have, Livia found her life turned upside down and inside out by war. She lost nearly everything - her home and her husband included - when conflict raged between groups of fire khati. She tried to fight, she tried to save her people, but in the end? There was a terrible choice to make: Stay and die or run and live.
Livia was pregnant - twin boys, she would come to find out, something she could only learn by fleeing. But before she could meet her sons, she met Cynara. I don't fully know how Livia came to be standing in that field, those memories are lost to me. I don't fully know how Cynara came to be there, either - some vagaries of the Dream and magic and the Queen's weaving of souls surely all come together in this. But the unexpected pair did find themselves both in this field at the same time, both bearing broken hearts and carrying the weight of devastating losses. These women, so alike and so different, made world-changing promises to one another.
And Livia became the first Livy, the progenitor of that family line in Cardia. She birthed her sons. Her sons started families. And so on and so on, through the generations, until now. Many of you know the Livy name because of Petraea. Her choice, when having to choose, was to stay and die. It might sound crass when I say it like that, but few things inspire more grief in me than that choice.
I never actually met Petraea, not really. This is one of my deepest regrets. The first time I ever saw her, I bristled. She stood before a meeting of Lycenes to discuss the embassy of the Scales now found in our ward. Fear and anger filled me. How could we dare accept such a thing?
Ignorance robbed me of something I can never know but might have been truly beautiful.
You see, I had no interest in knowing any Cardians. The idea of sitting in a room with one felt like a death sentence. It's hard to know who can be trusted when your entire family is marked for death. This, too, is another thing I don't know: Why has the king of the Skylords declared that Saik should be eradicated?
I did not trust her. I did not trust the overtures of alliance. Years passed, and I avoided her.
The last time I saw her, she was running forward on the field of battle outside of Arx when Helena Thornweave brought the Metallic Traitor's fight to us. Even toward the back, coordinating the medics, I could feel the heat of the towering inferno she had created to thin the enemy numbers. When she collapsed in the end, I found myself running to her side, kneeling down to see if there was anything to be done. She wasn't dead, not yet, but a sacrifice is a sacrifice. I watched as she crumbled. I bore her ash home on my armor.
Whomever you are reading this, I suspect you are wondering why I ran to her side. The answer is Livia. Or Cynara. Or me. All three, I suppose. Women shaped by tragedy, bearing fire within our very beings, connected by our souls across the bounds of time.
My first hint of this connection came while in the market one day. I was admiring some jewelry when a uniquely gorgeous woman caught my eye. One moment, I was aware of how very red her hair was, and the next I was on the back of a dragon, soaring through the air and feeling more free than I have ever felt, even with the sounds of battle around me. When that feeling cleared, the woman was gone. But I couldn't shake the sense that I needed to find her again.
The hunt for information gave me a name, and a tentatively written letter produced a confirmation. A few more letters, and I found myself forcefully chipping away at the distrust and unease that had built up around me over time, trying to gain insight into what was happening. I knew, somehow, these women were woven into the fabric of my life. And so, I had wanted to save Petraea when I saw her flames go out.
I learned the truth at Petraea's memorial. Cynara and I had not seen each other since the market. My steps faltered - not for fear but for heartache. Still, I stood before the crowd and spoke, acknowledging that I had been unjust, that I had regrets. And then I was in a field. Some other time. Some other place. Some other person. Lost and pregnant and facing a red dragon. With a blink, I was back at the memorial. Everything had shattered within me. When I finally had gathered myself to leave, Cynara caught me by the arm, and everyone there learned the same: I was the first Livy.
We face impossible things. And I find myself thinking about Livia and Petraea a lot. I pray that I am able to strike some balance between them, I pray that I can stay and live.
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 Calista
Jan. 13, 2024, 10:15 a.m.(7/18/1021 AR)
Preparations have been carefully planned and with the assistance of our staff, guards, and beloved family in Tor, the message has reached our City of Roses. We are ready to fight, to protect, to die for our people. We do not go into this lightly but we understand that for humanity to persevere, sacrifices need to be made. No one wants to make them, however, I know in the moment, when we are facing the most heinous of enemies we have ever faced, we will have heroes rise to the occasion. It will be their names forever memorialized in the Hall of Heroes, in song, and in poetry. Great stories will be told, both written and told. We will not forget this time.
It has been my truest and most absolute pleasure being Duchess of Tor these last seventeen years. I did not enter this position with glee, but I was young and naive then. My brother saw something in me I could not yet see. He did not think twice to consider abdicating his position as Duke to marry then Archduchess Esera Velenosa. They both saw something in me that took me years to see. I will forever be grateful for both of them. I can no longer imagine what it would be like to be anyone other than Calista Fidante, for my family and our people are my life's blood.
I am ever so blessed to have been a part of the reason Tor has flourished into the beautiful and dazzling rose, a diamond rose, it has become. Whatever evils may come to threaten, we will fight them back with our thorns, for roses may be beautiful, but one must always grasp roses with care.
It has been my truest and most absolute pleasure being Duchess of Tor these last seventeen years. I did not enter this position with glee, but I was young and naive then. My brother saw something in me I could not yet see. He did not think twice to consider abdicating his position as Duke to marry then Archduchess Esera Velenosa. They both saw something in me that took me years to see. I will forever be grateful for both of them. I can no longer imagine what it would be like to be anyone other than Calista Fidante, for my family and our people are my life's blood.
I am ever so blessed to have been a part of the reason Tor has flourished into the beautiful and dazzling rose, a diamond rose, it has become. Whatever evils may come to threaten, we will fight them back with our thorns, for roses may be beautiful, but one must always grasp roses with care.
Written By Ann
Jan. 13, 2024, 6:37 a.m.(7/18/1021 AR)
I am not afraid of the future as long as I have my Mattheu by my side.
To my Northern family my heart and spirit are with you.
I lift my glass of whiskey to you all.
To the last.
Choice is what we will always have.
To my Northern family my heart and spirit are with you.
I lift my glass of whiskey to you all.
To the last.
Choice is what we will always have.
Written By Lianne
Jan. 13, 2024, 3:40 a.m.(7/18/1021 AR)
I regret the girl I used to be who thought she had to be sharper and harder than she ever truly was, playing at wickedness never possessed.
I regret my early research which, despite good intentions, did more harm than good.
I regret the years I spent mourning something I hardly had and how it changed me, how it did harden me and render me cruel.
I regret the hard lines I drew, the people I hurt, the trouble I caused, the friendships I lost.
I regret breaking Sebastian's trust. Almost more than anything else.
I regret making a villain of someone who's only ever been a friend, what years I wasted harboring bitterness over nothing significant.
I regret one ritual of my own design which had unforeseen consequences; whatever the benefit, whatever I learned, the damage was done.
I regret neglecting Valerius in my grief over losing Beatrice. I wish we'd been able to bridge that distance.
I regret not following through on the work I was conducting with Archscholar Sina before she died; maybe things would be different now if I hadn't given up then.
And I regret asking someone I love immeasurably to bear the cost for something that may prove of little use in the end.
I regret my early research which, despite good intentions, did more harm than good.
I regret the years I spent mourning something I hardly had and how it changed me, how it did harden me and render me cruel.
I regret the hard lines I drew, the people I hurt, the trouble I caused, the friendships I lost.
I regret breaking Sebastian's trust. Almost more than anything else.
I regret making a villain of someone who's only ever been a friend, what years I wasted harboring bitterness over nothing significant.
I regret one ritual of my own design which had unforeseen consequences; whatever the benefit, whatever I learned, the damage was done.
I regret neglecting Valerius in my grief over losing Beatrice. I wish we'd been able to bridge that distance.
I regret not following through on the work I was conducting with Archscholar Sina before she died; maybe things would be different now if I hadn't given up then.
And I regret asking someone I love immeasurably to bear the cost for something that may prove of little use in the end.
Written By Fatima
Jan. 13, 2024, 3:33 a.m.(7/18/1021 AR)
Day 6
Facing down an ages-old Fractal with a handful of people and no real plan is suicidal.
I tried to warn them.
We can be in all the places we need to be at once. Everything is fine. No one will get hurt.
Facing down an ages-old Fractal with a handful of people and no real plan is suicidal.
I tried to warn them.
We can be in all the places we need to be at once. Everything is fine. No one will get hurt.
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 Viviana
Jan. 12, 2024, 11:21 p.m.(7/17/1021 AR)
She was there all along --
Verona.
It amazes the fuck out of me. She amazes me.
I would be vague, but, she is I and we.
Never do I regret it, saving her, me - myself - and her -- that she deserved that right eye.
Here's to our future.
No matter what side of the reflection glass you're borne on.
Verona.
It amazes the fuck out of me. She amazes me.
I would be vague, but, she is I and we.
Never do I regret it, saving her, me - myself - and her -- that she deserved that right eye.
Here's to our future.
No matter what side of the reflection glass you're borne on.
Written By Donella
Jan. 12, 2024, 10:49 p.m.(7/17/1021 AR)
I have said my goodbyes, and I am riding North. My children should be told their mother loves them, and asks them to be brave for themselves if not for their father or for me. It only means doing what they must, even when they are afraid, even when it is hard and victory seems a fool's hope. I am so proud of them, and I know we will be together again. As for my husband, he knows all that is in my heart already. I wish him and all our friends luck in the battles to come. I remain to the very last,
—Nell
—Nell
Written By Aconite
Jan. 12, 2024, 7:59 p.m.(7/17/1021 AR)
All my pretty and fashionable possessions have been tucked away in my old Chambers within the Villa.
All of the fashion and knick-knacks Whisper has collected have been stored as well.
Both are to be returned to Whisper House and the Whispers as soon as it is safe.
All of the fashion and knick-knacks Whisper has collected have been stored as well.
Both are to be returned to Whisper House and the Whispers as soon as it is safe.
Written By Mabelle
Jan. 12, 2024, 5:37 p.m.(7/17/1021 AR)
Marriage again.
The last time I found myself engaged I was a completely different person, sent by the late Duke Edmund to marry an older man for the sake of duty. I was shy and meek, quiet and disposable. I wonder if he knew what would happen. I wonder if he knew that defining moment in my life would commit me to a life of even bigger duty.
For that was all my life has ever been, duty for the people of Artshall. Through construction, innovation, wealth. From the first project of the way station - the Domestique Belle, through the hospital, the orphanages, and the Art District, which has been to highlight of my noble career, to the moment when it all burned down and the city had to be built anew.
It's true, I did do some things for myself, that in a way benefited them too. The fashion was for me. From that hot day at the beach when I wished there was a luxurious fabric to wear in the summer which brought the inspiration to all my creations, even when people laughed at the idea of naming a fabric honeysilk. Who's laughing now?
My hands and funds were in the creations of others as well, I still remember having to walk for weeks with long gloves in the summer to hide the spider bites or assisting with herding sheep. While wearing silks.
Traveling for my marriage to the Lyceum has also awoken my shadows which I've come to rely on nowadays. They are also what brought smokeweave into the world, for the curious minds who were wondering. They also helped me hide the moon during the battle outside Harrow Hall the night the Traitor died.
Reading back on all I've just written it all feels shallow to me. My life was deeper than that. I have fought and killed, defended and lost, learned and taught, loved and hated, made peace and war, sold and bought, negotiated and threatened, ruined and built, was struck and healed, grew, planted, plucked, burned, faced demons, monsters, and false gods. And all of it was for the sake of my people.
And out of all those hardships I've experienced in my life, nothing will ever be harder for me than changing my name from Laurent.
The first time was easy.
Lady Mabelle Hawkmour.
But that was when I was just Mabelle.
Once I was back, I was Laurent.
It was always Laurent.
I will always be, at the core, Mabelle of Artshall.
The last time I found myself engaged I was a completely different person, sent by the late Duke Edmund to marry an older man for the sake of duty. I was shy and meek, quiet and disposable. I wonder if he knew what would happen. I wonder if he knew that defining moment in my life would commit me to a life of even bigger duty.
For that was all my life has ever been, duty for the people of Artshall. Through construction, innovation, wealth. From the first project of the way station - the Domestique Belle, through the hospital, the orphanages, and the Art District, which has been to highlight of my noble career, to the moment when it all burned down and the city had to be built anew.
It's true, I did do some things for myself, that in a way benefited them too. The fashion was for me. From that hot day at the beach when I wished there was a luxurious fabric to wear in the summer which brought the inspiration to all my creations, even when people laughed at the idea of naming a fabric honeysilk. Who's laughing now?
My hands and funds were in the creations of others as well, I still remember having to walk for weeks with long gloves in the summer to hide the spider bites or assisting with herding sheep. While wearing silks.
Traveling for my marriage to the Lyceum has also awoken my shadows which I've come to rely on nowadays. They are also what brought smokeweave into the world, for the curious minds who were wondering. They also helped me hide the moon during the battle outside Harrow Hall the night the Traitor died.
Reading back on all I've just written it all feels shallow to me. My life was deeper than that. I have fought and killed, defended and lost, learned and taught, loved and hated, made peace and war, sold and bought, negotiated and threatened, ruined and built, was struck and healed, grew, planted, plucked, burned, faced demons, monsters, and false gods. And all of it was for the sake of my people.
And out of all those hardships I've experienced in my life, nothing will ever be harder for me than changing my name from Laurent.
The first time was easy.
Lady Mabelle Hawkmour.
But that was when I was just Mabelle.
Once I was back, I was Laurent.
It was always Laurent.
I will always be, at the core, Mabelle of Artshall.
Written By Ann
Jan. 12, 2024, 2:32 p.m.(7/16/1021 AR)
Scholar, I am taking the time to be creative in these troubling times. There may be some truth in this story. One can take it as they will.
Once upon a time, in the majestic kingdom of Farhaven, there lived a royal family whose story was destined to be etched in the annals of history. King Aldric and Queen Seraphina were blessed with four children – Ann, Valerian, Torrus, and Iona. Their family was completed by the youngest, Angus. Each child brought a unique charm and spirit to the grand halls of the castle.
Farhaven, nestled in the northern reaches of the kingdom, was a land of icy beauty and regal traditions. The children grew up amidst the towering snow-capped mountains and vast forests that surrounded the castle. They shared tales of heroes and legends, played in the courtyard, and learned the ways of their people.
As the years passed, the kingdom faced challenges. The cold winters were harsh, and whispers of distant lands filled with warmth and unknown wonders reached Farhaven. The royal family, bound by duty, remained steadfast, guiding their people through thick and thin.
Ann, however, harbored a desire for exploration and a thirst for knowledge beyond the northern realms. Her heart yearned to see the world beyond the icy borders of Farhaven. Her brothers and sister supported her dreams, understanding that destiny often called each soul in a different direction.
One day, a messenger arrived with news of an opportunity for Ann to travel to Riva, a distant land with a rich tapestry of cultures and landscapes. The decision weighed heavy on her heart, torn between her love for Farhaven and the beckoning call of the unknown.
In a grand farewell, the royal family gathered to bid Ann goodbye. Valerian, Torrus, Angus, and Iona stood by her side, their eyes reflecting a mix of pride and sadness. The people of Farhaven gathered to witness the departure of their beloved princess.
As Ann embarked on her journey to Riva, leaving the snowy landscapes of Farhaven behind, she carried with her the memories of her childhood, the lessons learned, and the love of her family. The horizon held the promise of adventure, discovery, and the unknown. And though Farhaven might not be seen in her lifetime, the spirit of the northern kingdom would forever reside in her heart, guiding her through the uncharted waters that lay ahead.
Once upon a time, in the majestic kingdom of Farhaven, there lived a royal family whose story was destined to be etched in the annals of history. King Aldric and Queen Seraphina were blessed with four children – Ann, Valerian, Torrus, and Iona. Their family was completed by the youngest, Angus. Each child brought a unique charm and spirit to the grand halls of the castle.
Farhaven, nestled in the northern reaches of the kingdom, was a land of icy beauty and regal traditions. The children grew up amidst the towering snow-capped mountains and vast forests that surrounded the castle. They shared tales of heroes and legends, played in the courtyard, and learned the ways of their people.
As the years passed, the kingdom faced challenges. The cold winters were harsh, and whispers of distant lands filled with warmth and unknown wonders reached Farhaven. The royal family, bound by duty, remained steadfast, guiding their people through thick and thin.
Ann, however, harbored a desire for exploration and a thirst for knowledge beyond the northern realms. Her heart yearned to see the world beyond the icy borders of Farhaven. Her brothers and sister supported her dreams, understanding that destiny often called each soul in a different direction.
One day, a messenger arrived with news of an opportunity for Ann to travel to Riva, a distant land with a rich tapestry of cultures and landscapes. The decision weighed heavy on her heart, torn between her love for Farhaven and the beckoning call of the unknown.
In a grand farewell, the royal family gathered to bid Ann goodbye. Valerian, Torrus, Angus, and Iona stood by her side, their eyes reflecting a mix of pride and sadness. The people of Farhaven gathered to witness the departure of their beloved princess.
As Ann embarked on her journey to Riva, leaving the snowy landscapes of Farhaven behind, she carried with her the memories of her childhood, the lessons learned, and the love of her family. The horizon held the promise of adventure, discovery, and the unknown. And though Farhaven might not be seen in her lifetime, the spirit of the northern kingdom would forever reside in her heart, guiding her through the uncharted waters that lay ahead.
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