Written By Lou
March 17, 2018, 7:59 a.m.(5/16/1008 AR)
I did not write a will. It was, perhaps, selfish of me not to do it. However, every time I sat down to do it, I couldn't bring myself to bring quill to paper. I did not want to imagine a world where my husband had to live without his wife, and my daughter, my sweet sweet Safiyyah, had to live without her mother. I just couldn't. So, I didn't write a will. Instead, I prayed to the Gods to keep me safe in battle. And, so they did.
The battle was chaotic, messy, and full of sights I'd never seen before in my life. We were warned during some of the meetings about what we'd face, from those who experienced it first hand, but you can never be prepared for the horrors you'd be facing yourself.
Outside of nervousness over the battle, the first thing I experienced was a growing feeling in the pit of my stomach, and an overwhelming, almost supernatural sense of fear. And then, that fear washed away. Not to nothing. No never to nothing. It was there. Always, but it was manageable. It was /normal/, when it almost wasn't.
Someone must have done something in Setarco. I'm not sure who they were, but I am grateful to whatever aid they offered in beseeching the Gods to help us - for I cannot think of any being or creature other than the Gods that could have washed away those feelings of fear with the hope, peace, and confidence we needed to face the fight we fought. I will make sure to thank the Gods for their aid, this day, and every day, knowing that while arrows rained all around me, that I did not take a scratch of damage during the battle.
I also thank my sister, Reese, for lending me her armor. I fully believe if I did not have her steel set to use, that perhaps i would not have come out so lucky. I am also so very grateful that both she and Luca came out of this well and good.
As to the horrors we saw? Well... the ships that came upon us were not like anything you'd ever seen before. They resembled the ones that we used, of course, but they were damaged... broken... how they were sea worthy is anyone's guess, as they should have been at the bottom of the sea. And the smells that came off them? The people...? No, things... that we fought, might have once been human but I just don't know if they still were when we fought them. It was so very hard to tell. And, I put this here, in plain writing, because there were too many of us that saw what we saw and deny -- still -- that such things can't exist. These terrors do.
No longer can we hide behind superstition. With two battles so close to each other, only a handful of years of part, it is time to pull up our breeches and prepare for the things to come, and ensure that we not only fight for our home, but /win/ so that or home will stay safe. I will always fight to be free and safe, and so that my daughter might grow up in a world that remains free and safe.
The battle was chaotic, messy, and full of sights I'd never seen before in my life. We were warned during some of the meetings about what we'd face, from those who experienced it first hand, but you can never be prepared for the horrors you'd be facing yourself.
Outside of nervousness over the battle, the first thing I experienced was a growing feeling in the pit of my stomach, and an overwhelming, almost supernatural sense of fear. And then, that fear washed away. Not to nothing. No never to nothing. It was there. Always, but it was manageable. It was /normal/, when it almost wasn't.
Someone must have done something in Setarco. I'm not sure who they were, but I am grateful to whatever aid they offered in beseeching the Gods to help us - for I cannot think of any being or creature other than the Gods that could have washed away those feelings of fear with the hope, peace, and confidence we needed to face the fight we fought. I will make sure to thank the Gods for their aid, this day, and every day, knowing that while arrows rained all around me, that I did not take a scratch of damage during the battle.
I also thank my sister, Reese, for lending me her armor. I fully believe if I did not have her steel set to use, that perhaps i would not have come out so lucky. I am also so very grateful that both she and Luca came out of this well and good.
As to the horrors we saw? Well... the ships that came upon us were not like anything you'd ever seen before. They resembled the ones that we used, of course, but they were damaged... broken... how they were sea worthy is anyone's guess, as they should have been at the bottom of the sea. And the smells that came off them? The people...? No, things... that we fought, might have once been human but I just don't know if they still were when we fought them. It was so very hard to tell. And, I put this here, in plain writing, because there were too many of us that saw what we saw and deny -- still -- that such things can't exist. These terrors do.
No longer can we hide behind superstition. With two battles so close to each other, only a handful of years of part, it is time to pull up our breeches and prepare for the things to come, and ensure that we not only fight for our home, but /win/ so that or home will stay safe. I will always fight to be free and safe, and so that my daughter might grow up in a world that remains free and safe.
Written By Thena
March 17, 2018, 7:34 a.m.(5/16/1008 AR)
Dispatches from south of Stormwall — I live, and barely a scratch on me. It was far worse than we were prepared for, but thank the gods, we had some warning. All told, I think we acquitted ourselves well though the loss of the city was unfortunate. My throat and nose are choked with ash this morning.
I wait for the reports of our troop losses to come in. I think there might be no worse feeling.
I wait for the reports of our troop losses to come in. I think there might be no worse feeling.
Written By Aiden
March 17, 2018, 3:53 a.m.(5/16/1008 AR)
Dearest Father,
I've never written you directly, at least, not in this format. I wish you to know that I commanded the Grayson Army, with Princess Marian Redrain and Marquis Mydas Acheron, in one of the greatest and most horrific battles of our time, at Stormwall. We did what we had to do, we did with heavy hearts, but we made decisions to keep the casualties lower than they might have been, had that army gotten beyond us south. I finally understand what you meant, and what it means, to be you son.
Signed Aiden.
----
May we never forget those we lost and the efforts of those who fought valiantly beside us, to defend all that we love and cherish.
The loss of stone and wall can be replaced, but our people cannot. We must pray they find their way now, in this aftermath.
My heartfelt condolences go out to those who lost their loved ones, though I encourage you to take heart that they fell so that you could live.
So that we could all live.
----
I've never written you directly, at least, not in this format. I wish you to know that I commanded the Grayson Army, with Princess Marian Redrain and Marquis Mydas Acheron, in one of the greatest and most horrific battles of our time, at Stormwall. We did what we had to do, we did with heavy hearts, but we made decisions to keep the casualties lower than they might have been, had that army gotten beyond us south. I finally understand what you meant, and what it means, to be you son.
Signed Aiden.
----
May we never forget those we lost and the efforts of those who fought valiantly beside us, to defend all that we love and cherish.
The loss of stone and wall can be replaced, but our people cannot. We must pray they find their way now, in this aftermath.
My heartfelt condolences go out to those who lost their loved ones, though I encourage you to take heart that they fell so that you could live.
So that we could all live.
----
Written By Rinel
March 17, 2018, 3:20 a.m.(5/16/1008 AR)
As reports begin to enter Arx of the battle for Stormwall, I am at a loss for words. Certainly firsthand accounts of military affairs should be treated with skepticism, but I can personally vouch for the honesty and perspicacity of my sources. The events that have been recounted to me are miraculous, yet there is a tragedy that hangs above them all. An entire city sacrificed to repel a foe--and how many lives? I quail at the thought of the macabre count to come.
Written By Echo
March 17, 2018, 3:10 a.m.(5/16/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Eirlys
I never got to say goodbye, I never wanted to say goodbye, and I am at a complete loss for words. I lost my best friend. I'm a complete wreck, and I already miss you so much. I love you, and I'm sorry that I couldn't protect you. I'm so sorry. I don't think I'll be able to get over this. Why did it have to be you?
Written By Malesh
March 17, 2018, 2:56 a.m.(5/16/1008 AR)
Mourn not for me, for I yet live, despite rumors to the contrary. Mourn instead for Eirlys Greenmarch and the countless others that fell. Mourn for Stormwall. I did my duty and somehow managed to survive what should have killed me twice over. Others did their duty and more.
Written By Saoirse
March 17, 2018, 2:27 a.m.(5/16/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Estaban
I think we can all acknowledge that me pulling out that arrow probably hurt, but can't we just MOVE BEYOND IT. THANK you.
(I am sorry.)
(You are a hero.)
(I am sorry.)
(You are a hero.)
Written By Jericho
March 17, 2018, 1:56 a.m.(5/16/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Eirlys
My Love, My Fiance, and My heart, Lady Eirlys Greenmarch has died.
She fought valiantly in the Battle of Stormwall, and against such a terrible foe that crawled from darkness, she gave her life to save another. As I write this, my hand is heavy...tears stain my eyes...and I find myself coping horribly with the loss of my heart.
I remember the day we met...she soundly defeated me in sparring, and from that moment on, I knew I would marry this woman someday. But now...the curse that invades this land has taken her away. May all remember: Lady Eirlys Greenmarch is a hero. One we wish had not departed us so soon in her life.
I hear tales that the departed watch over us...that even though they have died, they are still with us in their own way. If, by chance, this is true, know then that I will see you again, Eirlys, in paradise.
By my hand,
Prince Jericho Valardin.
She fought valiantly in the Battle of Stormwall, and against such a terrible foe that crawled from darkness, she gave her life to save another. As I write this, my hand is heavy...tears stain my eyes...and I find myself coping horribly with the loss of my heart.
I remember the day we met...she soundly defeated me in sparring, and from that moment on, I knew I would marry this woman someday. But now...the curse that invades this land has taken her away. May all remember: Lady Eirlys Greenmarch is a hero. One we wish had not departed us so soon in her life.
I hear tales that the departed watch over us...that even though they have died, they are still with us in their own way. If, by chance, this is true, know then that I will see you again, Eirlys, in paradise.
By my hand,
Prince Jericho Valardin.
Written By Violet
March 17, 2018, 1:28 a.m.(5/16/1008 AR)
The battle was I had felt it would be, pitched and hard. Stormwall had to be set ablaze to defeat the enemy. But it was done. Many lost their lives and many were injured. I wish I could say I was not one of the later. Certainly there will be people chiding and clucking over me like hens. I took a spear in the side making sure Lord Tobias was covered. But I am fine and will recover. I likely will have another lovely scar to add to my collection.
I would like to think the Crimson Blades proved themselves the Elite that we are. Something dark, a writhing hooded shadow it seemed, was commanding those using ladders to scale the walls. The shot was an almost impossible one, but my arrow flew straight and true and whatever it is...the dark shadows dissolved when my arrow struck it. It gave us some breathing room anyway.
Also? I loathe wound in the side. Every way you move hurts. And carts? Ugh...
I would like to think the Crimson Blades proved themselves the Elite that we are. Something dark, a writhing hooded shadow it seemed, was commanding those using ladders to scale the walls. The shot was an almost impossible one, but my arrow flew straight and true and whatever it is...the dark shadows dissolved when my arrow struck it. It gave us some breathing room anyway.
Also? I loathe wound in the side. Every way you move hurts. And carts? Ugh...
Written By Joscelin
March 17, 2018, 1:14 a.m.(5/16/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Sameera
It is the unspoken task of the Guildmaster to love all of her Crafters.
Even the very Difficult ones.
I promise to miss you.
Even the very Difficult ones.
I promise to miss you.
Written By Esoka
March 17, 2018, 12:57 a.m.(5/16/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Eirlys
Eirlys Greenmarch, beloved of the Spirits and devotee of the Pantheon, gave her life for me upon the fields of Stormwall. It shall not be forgotten. We have vengeance upon her killer and shall honor her memory, I swear to all gods who can hear me.
Written By Mia
March 17, 2018, 12:48 a.m.(5/16/1008 AR)
From the Battle at Stormwall, 5/16/1008 AR:
At this rate, I am going to have enough scars to match my husband.
At this rate, I am going to have enough scars to match my husband.
Written By Isidora
March 16, 2018, 10:05 p.m.(5/16/1008 AR)
A wartime vigil is being held tonight in the Cathedral. It is lovely to see so many offering prayers for the men and women out to battle in the south. I imagine now they are facing the enemy and in my mind it is grisly, bloody, and frightening. I can only pray and hope that everyone is safe.
"In the darkest of times does the spark of
hope in humanity shine the brightest."
"In the darkest of times does the spark of
hope in humanity shine the brightest."
Written By Peri
March 16, 2018, 8:47 p.m.(5/16/1008 AR)
If I die, Kaldur gets my icicle candy and must keep it in my fox-box.
Written By Calaudrin
March 16, 2018, 8:16 p.m.(5/16/1008 AR)
I read a lot of lengthy entries in the white journals. And I was a well spoken person, I might have some lengthy entries myself to describe this feeling.
But I don't.
I don't have the words to describe the near paralyzing sensation of fear and helplessness when I think of just about every single person that's important to me being out there in battle. And I'm here in Arx.
Get back home in one piece all you fucking assholes.
And Esoka.
But I don't.
I don't have the words to describe the near paralyzing sensation of fear and helplessness when I think of just about every single person that's important to me being out there in battle. And I'm here in Arx.
Get back home in one piece all you fucking assholes.
And Esoka.
Written By Jasper
March 16, 2018, 7:12 p.m.(5/15/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Ennettia
It seems your words have been recorded by a Scholar of Vellichor against your word. At least, for all observable purposes. If this has offended you, please allow me to urge you to report the scribe's name to the Archscholar Bianca Wyrmguard so that proper punishment may be dealt, whatever that may be.
Written By Martin
March 16, 2018, 6:43 p.m.(5/15/1008 AR)
There is a very great deal that I must write, but now is not the time. Instead I must put quill to parchment to address a matter most immediate, and, dare I say, extremely important to me. It was brought to my attention that a certain young man wrote in his own White Journal that, should he pass, I would be one of two recipients to receive his personal belongings as well as some other things. I must confess that when I read it, and saw who it was that wrote it, a few emotional cords were struck within me. Great sorrow, of course, because who can read such things and not feel a twinge of sadness over the very idea of a friend or loved one passing away? Followed by anger, the anger of the old over the idea that the young should go before them. Yet each of these emotions were short-lived. Both are natural, that I do not deny, but neither do the one cared about justice. Worse, it accords them little and less respect. For did, in this particular case, the knight in question not choose this path? Is he not willingly marching off to fight for a cause as big as any we have thus far known? So rather than let my heart be troubled by grief, I shall instead embrace pride. Pride in the bravery of all those men and women who are leaving behind loved ones in order to defend them. I shall allow hope to warm me, because without it we are all souls like candles unlit. Lastly, and ever always, I will hold to faith. Faith in all those virtues the gods put before us, faith in my fellow man, no matter how seemingly fragile, and faith in myself, that I might continue instil this same passion for what is right and good in others.
Just as I once did, so long ago now, for a young rapscallion better known today as Sir Jeffeth Bayweather.
Just as I once did, so long ago now, for a young rapscallion better known today as Sir Jeffeth Bayweather.
Written By Luca
March 16, 2018, 6:10 p.m.(5/15/1008 AR)
[ As recorded by a scholar: ]
I'm too pretty to die. But mistakes do happen. I know all about that. If the worst should come to pass, I don't really care where my belongings go. They're just things. None of them have ever made me a better person, or a happier one. I suspect the Princess of Ribbons will have the ribbons I wear, and that is right and just. My only real request is that someone seize my blacks, and toss them into a fire. If that's your quest, you have the freedom of my liquor cabinet to put you better in the mood for a bit of breaking and entering, and some criminal arson.
What? No, of course I'm kidding about the arson, scholar. Absolutely kidding.
I'd worry about the kittens, but they're more adorable than anything has the right to be. They'll sort themselves out, I'm sure.
I'm too pretty to die. But mistakes do happen. I know all about that. If the worst should come to pass, I don't really care where my belongings go. They're just things. None of them have ever made me a better person, or a happier one. I suspect the Princess of Ribbons will have the ribbons I wear, and that is right and just. My only real request is that someone seize my blacks, and toss them into a fire. If that's your quest, you have the freedom of my liquor cabinet to put you better in the mood for a bit of breaking and entering, and some criminal arson.
What? No, of course I'm kidding about the arson, scholar. Absolutely kidding.
I'd worry about the kittens, but they're more adorable than anything has the right to be. They'll sort themselves out, I'm sure.
Written By Saya
March 16, 2018, 6:06 p.m.(5/15/1008 AR)
I walk the river's edge,
wade out into the water.
Though my hearts hold no pledge,
I drink down my sorrows.
At the river's edge.
wade out into the water.
Though my hearts hold no pledge,
I drink down my sorrows.
At the river's edge.
Written By Valery
March 16, 2018, 5:38 p.m.(5/15/1008 AR)
The town feels empty with so many people going to fight the enemy...
The corridors of the Villa are much quieter than they should. I think even the other servants whisper instead of talking.
I think they are worried. I know I am. I'm scared that any people I know would get hurt. Or worse.
I'm so so scared...
The corridors of the Villa are much quieter than they should. I think even the other servants whisper instead of talking.
I think they are worried. I know I am. I'm scared that any people I know would get hurt. Or worse.
I'm so so scared...
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.