Written By Reigna
March 9, 2018, 12:58 p.m.(5/1/1008 AR)
No. There *should* be political and social responses to this move by House Pravus. It baffles me how or why this was thought to be a good idea. As I outlined in my journal, there is, from an outside perspective (i.e. the rest of the Peerage's perspective), no reason to do this. None. There is no political rationale for doing this outside of showing affection for a murderous, traitorous exile and excommunicate. What boon do these children bring to Pravus? What other than the circumstance of their parentage, qualifies them to be elevated to the nobility? Explain that. Give a solid, justifiable reason about what makes these children any different or special than any of the other orphans of the Lowers. When we grant nobility to a Crownsworn baby who has done nothing more than be born, are we not cheapening what it means to hold title? I take my responsibilities incredibly seriously. It is an affront to me, to the rest of the Peerage to see such a thing given with no explanation. Who can say what their future holds? They may grow up to be exemplary citizens of the Crown and their deeds may very well earn them ennoblement. But why now? Why with no explanation?
So yes. Pravus should be held both politically and socially accountable for their actions. The babies are blameless, and I hope their futures are happy and bright.
So yes. Pravus should be held both politically and socially accountable for their actions. The babies are blameless, and I hope their futures are happy and bright.
Written By Reigna
March 9, 2018, 12:14 p.m.(5/1/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Cassima
To clarify my words:
The consequences I referred to are to House Pravus for this move, *not* to the children. For my take on that, see the first sentence under 'On adoption'. And to clarify my clarification, those consequences are the current furor regarding the move to adopt. Nothing more than that. Please, let us not assume the worst of each other? I was simply trying to express my own confusion over the move and perhaps offer perspective on *why* this action has caused such a debate. I am a healer and I have a deep aversion to physical violence. I am the last person to worry about when it comes to threats of violence.
The consequences I referred to are to House Pravus for this move, *not* to the children. For my take on that, see the first sentence under 'On adoption'. And to clarify my clarification, those consequences are the current furor regarding the move to adopt. Nothing more than that. Please, let us not assume the worst of each other? I was simply trying to express my own confusion over the move and perhaps offer perspective on *why* this action has caused such a debate. I am a healer and I have a deep aversion to physical violence. I am the last person to worry about when it comes to threats of violence.
Written By Reigna
March 9, 2018, 11:20 a.m.(5/1/1008 AR)
On adoption.
While I completely and unequivocally agree that the circumstances of birth are in no way the fault of the child, I feel it is a bit naive to think it will not effect them. I, of all people, recognize the desire to strive to rise above our baser principals and try to embody the ideals and values of our gods. Charity. Civilization. Gild teaches that we should work together to build a society, a culture that sees to the needs of us all. With that society, there are rules. Rules that require consequences when broken. Abbas faced those consequences.
Were his children granted the name Thrax and the titles of Prince or Princess? Were they fully acknowledged scion of the Great House? Or were they Crownsworn offspring? Does it matter? I think it does. If they were Prince and Princess, being lowered in title and adopted into House Pravus has far less impact or implication. It makes just about as much sense as adopting two Crownsworn babes into a House which seems to have no lacking of nobles of heir-making years.
If they were not acknowledged, if they were already Crownsworn... then I fail to see the logic in their adoption. House Pravus, as stated before has plenty of heirs, including the son of the Duchess. What purpose is served in elevating these two children? Instead of granting a title, if there was concern over their father's inability to care for them, to provide for them, why not simply take them in as a Ward?
When Kael and I were on a mission to the Eventide Vast, we came upon a village that had been decimated by a blood-mad group of Apostate Shav'Arvani. They had made war against another tribe of Abandoned. They did horrible, horrible things to these people. Images, scents... I will never get out of my mind. Among the dead I heard something. A feeble baby's wail. I found this child, starving, sick... She was so small. I was with child at the time, nearing the end of it, actually. There was no reason I should have been there. Yet I was. And I found this baby, feet from the corpse of her slain mother. And I took her in my arms, and I fed her from my body. I took her home and I named her Kata Oakwood. She is my child now. I love her fiercely and will continue to protect her from all the hurts I can. But she is not my daughter. She does not hold the name Keaton. Because I have an heir. Because it serves no purpose to Keaton to make her noble. Does that make me love her less? I will challenge anyone to says I do not love that little girl. But she calls me Reigna. Okay, she calls me Rei-Rei. Not mother. She is an Oakwood. Not a Keaton. Have I thought about adopting her? Of course I have. Many, many times. But it makes no sense to do so. And that is not a thing to just do. There must be purpose to the granting of nobility, else... why is there such a distinction made? Why not adopt all children to the ranks of the noble? Is not the purpose of the nobility to serve the people? If we are all made noble... who will serve the people? There will be no people left to serve.
I am not arrogant enough to assume I know all the details of this arrangement. I can but offer an outsider's perspective on why so many brows are lifted and glances to the side cast. Adoption is a weighty decision. Other options exist. What has been done is done. But as Skald teaches -- we do what we want. But the consequences are ours to reap.
While I completely and unequivocally agree that the circumstances of birth are in no way the fault of the child, I feel it is a bit naive to think it will not effect them. I, of all people, recognize the desire to strive to rise above our baser principals and try to embody the ideals and values of our gods. Charity. Civilization. Gild teaches that we should work together to build a society, a culture that sees to the needs of us all. With that society, there are rules. Rules that require consequences when broken. Abbas faced those consequences.
Were his children granted the name Thrax and the titles of Prince or Princess? Were they fully acknowledged scion of the Great House? Or were they Crownsworn offspring? Does it matter? I think it does. If they were Prince and Princess, being lowered in title and adopted into House Pravus has far less impact or implication. It makes just about as much sense as adopting two Crownsworn babes into a House which seems to have no lacking of nobles of heir-making years.
If they were not acknowledged, if they were already Crownsworn... then I fail to see the logic in their adoption. House Pravus, as stated before has plenty of heirs, including the son of the Duchess. What purpose is served in elevating these two children? Instead of granting a title, if there was concern over their father's inability to care for them, to provide for them, why not simply take them in as a Ward?
When Kael and I were on a mission to the Eventide Vast, we came upon a village that had been decimated by a blood-mad group of Apostate Shav'Arvani. They had made war against another tribe of Abandoned. They did horrible, horrible things to these people. Images, scents... I will never get out of my mind. Among the dead I heard something. A feeble baby's wail. I found this child, starving, sick... She was so small. I was with child at the time, nearing the end of it, actually. There was no reason I should have been there. Yet I was. And I found this baby, feet from the corpse of her slain mother. And I took her in my arms, and I fed her from my body. I took her home and I named her Kata Oakwood. She is my child now. I love her fiercely and will continue to protect her from all the hurts I can. But she is not my daughter. She does not hold the name Keaton. Because I have an heir. Because it serves no purpose to Keaton to make her noble. Does that make me love her less? I will challenge anyone to says I do not love that little girl. But she calls me Reigna. Okay, she calls me Rei-Rei. Not mother. She is an Oakwood. Not a Keaton. Have I thought about adopting her? Of course I have. Many, many times. But it makes no sense to do so. And that is not a thing to just do. There must be purpose to the granting of nobility, else... why is there such a distinction made? Why not adopt all children to the ranks of the noble? Is not the purpose of the nobility to serve the people? If we are all made noble... who will serve the people? There will be no people left to serve.
I am not arrogant enough to assume I know all the details of this arrangement. I can but offer an outsider's perspective on why so many brows are lifted and glances to the side cast. Adoption is a weighty decision. Other options exist. What has been done is done. But as Skald teaches -- we do what we want. But the consequences are ours to reap.
Written By Reigna
March 8, 2018, 11:04 a.m.(4/27/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Khanne
I am so, so happy for you my friend. Friend feels a mild word, for all that I cannot ever put to words exactly how it came to be (other than your sheer extraordinary grace, humor and heart, mind you) that I so instantly felt close to you, but nearly from the moment we first spoke I have trusted you and admired you. I count you among my family, one of choice, if not of blood, and I include you in my daily prayers, as among the things I am most grateful for in life. I do not flout the concept of Skald, I do not think that the gods have a predetermined path that all men must walk, but I do think that they offer us a choice of many roads, each with their challenges and rewards. I am profoundly glad to have walked the path that brought me to your friendship. You are a blessing, a support. One of the lights that shines brightest in the darkness, and I cannot express how glad I am that your path has brought you and Lord Percephon together. Limerance smile on you my dear friend.
Written By Reigna
March 5, 2018, 4:50 p.m.(4/21/1008 AR)
The last will of Reigna Keaton, Countess-Consort of Oakhaven,
With my death, I ask that all my black journals be published, for my life and my deepest thoughts, good or ill, be known and shared. All my things are left to Kael, my husband, lest he precede me in death, or to the head of House Keaton, including my clothing, jewelry, artwork, bank accounts, and books, with the following exceptions:
To Lady Jael Laurent, I leave my roaring dragon rubicund staff. Fierce and treasured, may this weapon keep you safe as I so often wished to protect you in life.
To Lady Khanne Halfshav, I leave my triple tier silver and opal headdress. There is something precious and otherworldly about them, they would look wonderful in your hair and I think they would make you smile, as you so often made me smile.
To Princess Alis Valardin, I leave my violets of Oakhaven hairpins and the matching dagger, items both beautiful and fiercely deadly, a seamless blend of femininity and strength.
To Princess Marian Redrain, I leave my secret hot chocolate recipe. It is well matched in its heat and spice with your sweetness, and pairs exceptionally well with whiskey.
To Duke Cristoph Laurent, I have enlisted Marie's promise to weekly stop by the Laurent Estate and make dinner for your family.
To Lady Margerie Keaton, I leave all my Bethany Whisper novels, the identity of the Author and a sealed envelope to be opened by her and no other!
I ask that my son, Aeryn Squall Keaton receive a pony on his third birthday and a horse upon his sixth. That he also receive a bloodhound of the Aegis or Nobilis lines by his fifth birthday. And that the song 'The acorn grows into Oak' be sung to him as long as he asks for it. I ask that my Promise of Dawn rubicund hairpins be set aside and given to him as a keepsake of me.
I ask that some funds be set aside to buy books for the children of the Lowers, or that a Library be built there in my name.
To my husband, should he survive me, give him the attached letter and someone make sure he reads it when he is ready.
With my death, I ask that all my black journals be published, for my life and my deepest thoughts, good or ill, be known and shared. All my things are left to Kael, my husband, lest he precede me in death, or to the head of House Keaton, including my clothing, jewelry, artwork, bank accounts, and books, with the following exceptions:
To Lady Jael Laurent, I leave my roaring dragon rubicund staff. Fierce and treasured, may this weapon keep you safe as I so often wished to protect you in life.
To Lady Khanne Halfshav, I leave my triple tier silver and opal headdress. There is something precious and otherworldly about them, they would look wonderful in your hair and I think they would make you smile, as you so often made me smile.
To Princess Alis Valardin, I leave my violets of Oakhaven hairpins and the matching dagger, items both beautiful and fiercely deadly, a seamless blend of femininity and strength.
To Princess Marian Redrain, I leave my secret hot chocolate recipe. It is well matched in its heat and spice with your sweetness, and pairs exceptionally well with whiskey.
To Duke Cristoph Laurent, I have enlisted Marie's promise to weekly stop by the Laurent Estate and make dinner for your family.
To Lady Margerie Keaton, I leave all my Bethany Whisper novels, the identity of the Author and a sealed envelope to be opened by her and no other!
I ask that my son, Aeryn Squall Keaton receive a pony on his third birthday and a horse upon his sixth. That he also receive a bloodhound of the Aegis or Nobilis lines by his fifth birthday. And that the song 'The acorn grows into Oak' be sung to him as long as he asks for it. I ask that my Promise of Dawn rubicund hairpins be set aside and given to him as a keepsake of me.
I ask that some funds be set aside to buy books for the children of the Lowers, or that a Library be built there in my name.
To my husband, should he survive me, give him the attached letter and someone make sure he reads it when he is ready.
Written By Reigna
March 2, 2018, 11:21 p.m.(4/16/1008 AR)
The Physicians guild is coming along and I might have underestimated the work. It is good work though and it makes me feel accomplished at the end of the day. However, I need to find some extra time somehow. Lady Victoria advised me to hire an assistant physician to watch over me and monitor my health. As odd as that feels, I think I must comply. I have not been able to eat for a few days. My stomach is in knots and when I try food oft comes back up. I've been relying on tea -- not even honeyed as, much as it seems strange to say it, it is too sweet -- and she reminded me that I should be drinking broth. That sounded so good I sent Marie to see if she had any, and thankfully she did. I've been sipping that for a while now and am feeling much better.
I think perhaps I have not yet fully shaken my illness from before. I've been tired and weak-feeling since then.. Not constantly but often enough. I attribute this all to stress, giving my coming trip up north and lengthy separation from Kael and Aeryn Squall. I am not looking forward to it. Not at all. And it has made me testy. I even lost my temper the other day which is quite unlike me.
I think perhaps I have not yet fully shaken my illness from before. I've been tired and weak-feeling since then.. Not constantly but often enough. I attribute this all to stress, giving my coming trip up north and lengthy separation from Kael and Aeryn Squall. I am not looking forward to it. Not at all. And it has made me testy. I even lost my temper the other day which is quite unlike me.
Written By Reigna
March 1, 2018, 2:13 p.m.(4/13/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Mae
I am now quite curious about your painting! I must go to the Murder of Crows and see it. For... historical perspective. Of course.
Are you still seeking a patron, Goodwoman Mae?
Are you still seeking a patron, Goodwoman Mae?
Written By Reigna
March 1, 2018, 2:12 p.m.(4/13/1008 AR)
Time is moving so quickly and there are so many things to do that I think sometimes I am so tired because my mind refuses to stop, even while sleeping. It is the not knowing that is making it worse. Of not knowing how much longer I have before our lives are completely turned upside down. I keep telling myself that it only means that I should make each moment more precious. Make each one count.
It is hard not to see each task that takes me away from my family as stealing that time from me. I have never been a jealous person, (Kael. Stop laughing.) but I find myself yearning for a long afternoon spent in the garden with my family. Watching Kata play in the dirt, seeing Aeryn making his attempts at his first steps while he coos and says 'Papapapapa' over and over. And Kael. That smile he gets when he watches Aeryn. That wonder and pride and love all mingled together.
I came home after the birth of Prince Samuel to find Kael stretched out on the cushions before the hearth, Aeryn laying on his stomach and Kata snuggled up against his side and I thought my heart would melt straight out of my chest. I will hold tight to that memory in the coming days. That sweetness will see me though many dark times ahead.
It is hard not to see each task that takes me away from my family as stealing that time from me. I have never been a jealous person, (Kael. Stop laughing.) but I find myself yearning for a long afternoon spent in the garden with my family. Watching Kata play in the dirt, seeing Aeryn making his attempts at his first steps while he coos and says 'Papapapapa' over and over. And Kael. That smile he gets when he watches Aeryn. That wonder and pride and love all mingled together.
I came home after the birth of Prince Samuel to find Kael stretched out on the cushions before the hearth, Aeryn laying on his stomach and Kata snuggled up against his side and I thought my heart would melt straight out of my chest. I will hold tight to that memory in the coming days. That sweetness will see me though many dark times ahead.
Written By Reigna
Feb. 25, 2018, 7:56 p.m.(4/6/1008 AR)
So. I am going to Stormwall. I will be heading there to help run the healers within the castle. I am afraid. But the Thirteenth teaches us that hiding from our fears does not mean they go away. I embrace my fear. I acknowledge my fear. But I do not let it prevent me from what I must do. I look to the gods to show me the way. By their virtues I am made better. I follow the lessons they teach and honor them with my adherence to their ways.
But I am still afraid.
I just will not let it hinder me.
But I am still afraid.
I just will not let it hinder me.
Written By Reigna
Feb. 22, 2018, 3:54 p.m.(3/27/1008 AR)
I wish to take a moment to give thanks to the Lady Eirene Malvici. She is healer of extraordinary talent and has served the Physicians Guild with honor and distinction. She taught me important lessons, helped make me a better doctor than I was. I am honored beyond the ability to say, that she chose me as her successor. She is a strong, capable and fierce woman and I have the utmost respect for her.
I am looking forward to the challenges ahead and I can only hope to honor her legacy and continue along the path she forged towards success.
For the health of all of Arx, in the name of the Lady of Change, by her healing light are we saved.
I am looking forward to the challenges ahead and I can only hope to honor her legacy and continue along the path she forged towards success.
For the health of all of Arx, in the name of the Lady of Change, by her healing light are we saved.
Written By Reigna
Feb. 21, 2018, 5:20 p.m.(3/25/1008 AR)
On matters of Faith and feeling unappreciated.
I am an Oathlands woman. I was born and raised into the Orthodoxy. I say my prayers every day. I see the hands of the gods in all the beauty that surrounds me.
I hear Mangata's laughter in the babble of a brook, in the feel of the wind on my face, the generosity of Petrichor when I observe our dinner table, as I walk between the trees and bask in the green. The mercy of Our Lady of Change in the hands of those who heal. I see the love of the Queen of Endings and Mother of Beginnings in the cry of a newborn, in the final breath of the dying.
I recognize the promises of Limerance that are kept with each rising of the sun, the love I see in my husband's eyes, in the weight of duty that I carry with me through every choice and decision I make, knowing that it impacts the lives of those who call Oakhaven home. The charity and hospitality of Gild in the smile of those who work to ensure our fellows are clothed and fed. The justice of the Sentinel in the keeping of our Laws. I know that even when it *feels* like there is no choice, there is always a choice. And by Skald's deeds, that choice is mine, as are the consequences, good or bad, that flow from it.
My heart has held fast and true to Vellichor in his search for knowledge, the sharing of wisdom (which is not always the same as sharing information, mind) and the fostering of understanding, and who tells us to document and know our history, lest we make the same mistakes and stop growing. I see the the steely pride of Gloria reflected in the eyes of our warriors and tacticians, her grace in the Knight accepting a favor from their beloved. I see the hand of Jayus in the colors on a canvas, the shape and texture of statues, in the crafting of clothes, weapons and jewelry, the flow of the written or spoken word. And our dreams that flow from the Dreamer of the world, from Aion who brought everything into being.
Father Orazio is correct -- the gods are the ideals we should all aspire to. We should all seek to create, to foster, to show love and mercy, chivalry and honor. We should all seek to be just and honest, to create life, and depart without sorrow. To open our hearts to those with less than ourselves, to give to those we can and shepherd our own. To own the choices that we make, good or bad. To be knowledgeable and wise, to be inspired, to dream of a world greater and more beautiful than we can grasp.
We should love. Love ourselves and one another. Be respectful of your neighbor. Treat those around you the way you wish for them to treat you. I smile to those around me because I wish to be a light, a reminder of the joy and friendliness that is available in this world. Because that is what I seek. Smiles. Friendliness, a sense of community. I offer aid to those I can, because I know when I need help, I will look to those around me for it. I see the best in those around me, because I know inside every heart we are all doing the best that we can. No one wakes up and says "Today... today I'm going to ruin things for everyone." ...Or at least I sincerely hope that no one does. I do not understand that at all. You know what I mean. We are all the heroes of our story. And I seek to see the hero in everyone.
If you are feeling unappreciated, making purposely vague commentary is needlessly antagonistic. Yes, it starts a conversation, but it causes more harm than good. Making people defensive is not the way to feel appreciated. Think to yourself, how would it feel if you were in the other's place? Would the confusion help or make you angry and unwilling to listen?
When our pride is stung, anger is most often the swiftest emotion to arrive. But we can and should try to remember to take a step back and think about how our next act will help or harm. This is a lesson I myself have had to learn, painfully of late, as I have taken to my whites to air grievances best left to blacks.
It has been said numerous times over, but it bears repeating. We are on the verge of war, beset by numerous, deadly and terrifying enemies. These enemies seek to divide us because they know that unity is their bane. We must find a way to come together, to set aside the differences of faith and of temper and try to see the humanity in those around us. To see those lives, those other tiny lights against the dark. For if we can bring all our sparks together, we can outshine the sun, beat back the darkness and create a new age of dreams for all of us.
I am an Oathlands woman. I was born and raised into the Orthodoxy. I say my prayers every day. I see the hands of the gods in all the beauty that surrounds me.
I hear Mangata's laughter in the babble of a brook, in the feel of the wind on my face, the generosity of Petrichor when I observe our dinner table, as I walk between the trees and bask in the green. The mercy of Our Lady of Change in the hands of those who heal. I see the love of the Queen of Endings and Mother of Beginnings in the cry of a newborn, in the final breath of the dying.
I recognize the promises of Limerance that are kept with each rising of the sun, the love I see in my husband's eyes, in the weight of duty that I carry with me through every choice and decision I make, knowing that it impacts the lives of those who call Oakhaven home. The charity and hospitality of Gild in the smile of those who work to ensure our fellows are clothed and fed. The justice of the Sentinel in the keeping of our Laws. I know that even when it *feels* like there is no choice, there is always a choice. And by Skald's deeds, that choice is mine, as are the consequences, good or bad, that flow from it.
My heart has held fast and true to Vellichor in his search for knowledge, the sharing of wisdom (which is not always the same as sharing information, mind) and the fostering of understanding, and who tells us to document and know our history, lest we make the same mistakes and stop growing. I see the the steely pride of Gloria reflected in the eyes of our warriors and tacticians, her grace in the Knight accepting a favor from their beloved. I see the hand of Jayus in the colors on a canvas, the shape and texture of statues, in the crafting of clothes, weapons and jewelry, the flow of the written or spoken word. And our dreams that flow from the Dreamer of the world, from Aion who brought everything into being.
Father Orazio is correct -- the gods are the ideals we should all aspire to. We should all seek to create, to foster, to show love and mercy, chivalry and honor. We should all seek to be just and honest, to create life, and depart without sorrow. To open our hearts to those with less than ourselves, to give to those we can and shepherd our own. To own the choices that we make, good or bad. To be knowledgeable and wise, to be inspired, to dream of a world greater and more beautiful than we can grasp.
We should love. Love ourselves and one another. Be respectful of your neighbor. Treat those around you the way you wish for them to treat you. I smile to those around me because I wish to be a light, a reminder of the joy and friendliness that is available in this world. Because that is what I seek. Smiles. Friendliness, a sense of community. I offer aid to those I can, because I know when I need help, I will look to those around me for it. I see the best in those around me, because I know inside every heart we are all doing the best that we can. No one wakes up and says "Today... today I'm going to ruin things for everyone." ...Or at least I sincerely hope that no one does. I do not understand that at all. You know what I mean. We are all the heroes of our story. And I seek to see the hero in everyone.
If you are feeling unappreciated, making purposely vague commentary is needlessly antagonistic. Yes, it starts a conversation, but it causes more harm than good. Making people defensive is not the way to feel appreciated. Think to yourself, how would it feel if you were in the other's place? Would the confusion help or make you angry and unwilling to listen?
When our pride is stung, anger is most often the swiftest emotion to arrive. But we can and should try to remember to take a step back and think about how our next act will help or harm. This is a lesson I myself have had to learn, painfully of late, as I have taken to my whites to air grievances best left to blacks.
It has been said numerous times over, but it bears repeating. We are on the verge of war, beset by numerous, deadly and terrifying enemies. These enemies seek to divide us because they know that unity is their bane. We must find a way to come together, to set aside the differences of faith and of temper and try to see the humanity in those around us. To see those lives, those other tiny lights against the dark. For if we can bring all our sparks together, we can outshine the sun, beat back the darkness and create a new age of dreams for all of us.
Written By Reigna
Feb. 16, 2018, 1:26 p.m.(3/15/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Fortunato
You are correct, the spiral can not always go upwards. But my goals should always be higher. I should strive to be better, while having patience with myself when I do not meet them. But I have the hope that I can be what I wish myself to be.
Written By Reigna
Feb. 15, 2018, 3:30 p.m.(3/7/1008 AR)
Each new day is a blessing. A promise of potential, up to each of us to fill. We each have a choice -- a dozen dozen choices on what we want to do with the time we have. It is not an easy thing to grapple with, if you sit and really think about the choices we face. It is so very easy to fall into a line of thought, the illusion that there is no choice. But *everything* we do is a choice. Even if we choose to do nothing at all.
Today, I am choosing not to focus too far ahead.
Today, I am choosing to see the best in those around me, to believe in the essential good in my fellow humans (and elves!).
Today, I am choosing to be the best possible version of myself.
Today, I am choosing to be brave.
Today, I am choosing to be hopeful.
Today, as I do everyday, I will pray to our gods, for the safety of my husband, my family, my fealty, our Compact, our world.
Today, as I do everyday, I will love my husband with all my heart, trust in him and his ability, his honor and his martial prowess.
Today, as I do everyday, I will care for our children, give them love and sustenance and teach them.
Today, as I do everyday, I will work for the health and betterment of those of Arx, through healing the sick and wounded and preparing for what comes.
Today, as I do everyday, I will teach someone something new.
Tomorrow I will be better.
Tomorrow I will be stronger.
What of you, Arxians? What will you do today to fulfill your promise of potential? Who will you be tomorrow?
Today, I am choosing not to focus too far ahead.
Today, I am choosing to see the best in those around me, to believe in the essential good in my fellow humans (and elves!).
Today, I am choosing to be the best possible version of myself.
Today, I am choosing to be brave.
Today, I am choosing to be hopeful.
Today, as I do everyday, I will pray to our gods, for the safety of my husband, my family, my fealty, our Compact, our world.
Today, as I do everyday, I will love my husband with all my heart, trust in him and his ability, his honor and his martial prowess.
Today, as I do everyday, I will care for our children, give them love and sustenance and teach them.
Today, as I do everyday, I will work for the health and betterment of those of Arx, through healing the sick and wounded and preparing for what comes.
Today, as I do everyday, I will teach someone something new.
Tomorrow I will be better.
Tomorrow I will be stronger.
What of you, Arxians? What will you do today to fulfill your promise of potential? Who will you be tomorrow?
Written By Reigna
Feb. 8, 2018, 1:01 p.m.(2/21/1008 AR)
They have come. By the hundreds, even thousands! Healers from across the whole of Arvum, bearing medicines and remedies, bandages and skills. I cannot believe how successful this campaign has been. I am humbled, deeply humbled by the response of my fellow healers. And those here from Arx, Princess Sasha, with her lessons, Princess Sophie and Cybele, Ladies Lethe, Rey and Neve. Valery, the *legendary* Valery all working, helping making this possible. Dame Thena! Lady Eirene for her full support and assistance. The response of the healers, the fact that we have so many here, that we're coordinating and organizing... this gives me so much hope. Hope that we will be able to save lives, that there will be a higher rate of survival, that this will *help*. I feel... accomplished. I am no warrior, but I have, I hope, done something to help in this fight.
Written By Reigna
Feb. 8, 2018, 12:38 p.m.(2/21/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Khanne
I know I have been remiss in not getting this to you sooner. I have been blessed this last year to have so many good memories, so many moments when my heart lifted and I was swept away in a sense of wonder and delight. Trying to pick one has made me really stop and consider how much gratitude I have to the gods, to my husband, to my friends who have all become family to me. I look at where I am now and I think upon the girl I was when I first came to Arx and I have difficulty believing they are the same person. So, I give you my memory.
As a child, my life was... strained. My mother inherited a parcel of land on the edge of collapse. My grandmother's addictions had beggared our coffers and there were stretches of time when it seemed that we would not be able to keep our people safe as we had so little coin and running a Household relies on coin to pay guards and buy foodstuffs. We always managed to make it work, but my mother was often distant. My father was infrequently home, choosing to spend his time on the road with his cousins doing whatever it was that kept him away. My mother adored him, dashing man that he still is, her love evident in my six siblings and myself, though the strain of so many children, so much hardship and no partner, or at least no reliable partner to speak of, bred a distance between her and her children. We were both proof of her love and a reminder of the man who did not need her as she needed him. My siblings and I were never particularly close, and as we grew and they were married off, we grew less so. So despite coming from such a large family, I never really understood what it meant to be a part of something. Perhaps this was one of the reasons I so wished to be godsworn. I longed to feel a part of something. To belong in a way I had not felt, and the calling of Faith drew me in. So when it turned out that I was to be married instead of godsworn, for the sake of brevity, I'll not go into that tale now, I was not thrilled. I should have had more faith. Just a little over a year later, seated at my table in a Hall built for my new House, there was a dinner held. At the table was my husband, our liege, Duke Cristoph, Lady Jael, our aunt Margerie, Sir Norwood Clement. Kael and Jael were laughing, Cristoph looked exasperated, Lady Margerie was teasing Sir Clement and I realized in that moment... that *this* was my family. These people had accepted me. I *belonged*. The feeling of connection was so intense, so momentarily overwhelming that I nearly wept. I was home.
As a child, my life was... strained. My mother inherited a parcel of land on the edge of collapse. My grandmother's addictions had beggared our coffers and there were stretches of time when it seemed that we would not be able to keep our people safe as we had so little coin and running a Household relies on coin to pay guards and buy foodstuffs. We always managed to make it work, but my mother was often distant. My father was infrequently home, choosing to spend his time on the road with his cousins doing whatever it was that kept him away. My mother adored him, dashing man that he still is, her love evident in my six siblings and myself, though the strain of so many children, so much hardship and no partner, or at least no reliable partner to speak of, bred a distance between her and her children. We were both proof of her love and a reminder of the man who did not need her as she needed him. My siblings and I were never particularly close, and as we grew and they were married off, we grew less so. So despite coming from such a large family, I never really understood what it meant to be a part of something. Perhaps this was one of the reasons I so wished to be godsworn. I longed to feel a part of something. To belong in a way I had not felt, and the calling of Faith drew me in. So when it turned out that I was to be married instead of godsworn, for the sake of brevity, I'll not go into that tale now, I was not thrilled. I should have had more faith. Just a little over a year later, seated at my table in a Hall built for my new House, there was a dinner held. At the table was my husband, our liege, Duke Cristoph, Lady Jael, our aunt Margerie, Sir Norwood Clement. Kael and Jael were laughing, Cristoph looked exasperated, Lady Margerie was teasing Sir Clement and I realized in that moment... that *this* was my family. These people had accepted me. I *belonged*. The feeling of connection was so intense, so momentarily overwhelming that I nearly wept. I was home.
Written By Reigna
Feb. 7, 2018, 7:46 p.m.(2/19/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Gwenna
When you are ready, come and find me. We've a new batch of puppies that are still too young yet to be found new homes. However, the Aegis line (of which this litter is part) are the Keaton guardian line. If you are interested, you should come and meet my Oaken. He's extremely protective of me, and the sire of the litter.
Written By Reigna
Feb. 4, 2018, 8:44 p.m.(2/13/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Cristoph
It was a wonderful Tournament to Gloria today, and it was run with exceptional skill. Duke Cristoph's event was a wonderful demonstration of skill to inspire and pay homage to Gloria. I brought all of my medical kits, remembering the bloodbath that was the last grand melee, and I for one was very glad not to be wrist deep in blood and viscera this time around. All the credit goes to the host, my liege, Duke Cristoph. To those who fought, well shown. I was proud of all of you and hope was renewed in the face of the challenges to come.
Written By Reigna
Feb. 4, 2018, 12:37 a.m.(2/12/1008 AR)
I am not good with my staff. I am not particularly good with hairpins. I feel terribly guilty if I manage to actually land a blow. I fear I am not a good warrior, nor am I fated to be so. I feel this is a failing, somehow. That I should be at lest capable of defending myself. I just... cringe at the thought of doing harm.
Written By Reigna
Jan. 28, 2018, 9:32 p.m.(1/20/1008 AR)
I am leaving Arx today, for a few days. More heartwrenchingly, I am leaving Aeryn. It seems like it should be a small thing, I will not be gone long, but the idea of not seeing him. Of him not seeing me... it...
It is only a few days.
A few days.
It is only a few days.
A few days.
Written By Reigna
Jan. 25, 2018, 7:54 p.m.(1/14/1008 AR)
My prayer for the Paper Fleet:
Mangata, goddess of the seas
Whose winds carry us, fill us with life
Whose efforts have staved back the dark
Foreboding evil that creeps along twisting
Below.
Your love gives us life
Your waters quench thirst
Your wind gives us breath
You give us storms so that we can understand
Peace.
What can I give you in return
For every drink tasted
For every breath taken
What can I give back, goddess of Creation?
Love.
Devotion.
Determination.
Dedication.
With my words I offer you
Love.
With my prayers I offer you
Devotion.
I write these words with purpose,
Determination.
I give you these not once, but always,
Dedication.
May this ship, and all it's brothers and sisters set to sea,
Show all the world the love we bear for you,
Mangata, goddess, giver of life.
May these small offering form a mighty fleet
To bolster you in your time of need
As you do us, each time we breathe
Mangata, goddess of the seas
Whose winds carry us, fill us with life
Whose efforts have staved back the dark
Foreboding evil that creeps along twisting
Below.
Your love gives us life
Your waters quench thirst
Your wind gives us breath
You give us storms so that we can understand
Peace.
What can I give you in return
For every drink tasted
For every breath taken
What can I give back, goddess of Creation?
Love.
Devotion.
Determination.
Dedication.
With my words I offer you
Love.
With my prayers I offer you
Devotion.
I write these words with purpose,
Determination.
I give you these not once, but always,
Dedication.
May this ship, and all it's brothers and sisters set to sea,
Show all the world the love we bear for you,
Mangata, goddess, giver of life.
May these small offering form a mighty fleet
To bolster you in your time of need
As you do us, each time we breathe
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