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Written By Hadrian

Jan. 24, 2018, 10:12 a.m.(1/11/1008 AR)

Word of mouth informed me that there was a new series of figurines released. The bauble reflecting that of Baroness Kima Saik, the Lioness of Southport, is an excellent representation. There is only one critique to be made regarding it, really. When I hold this thing in my hands, thinking about my best friend and former unerringly loyal Sword, I realize the one flaw in the design of the knick knack.

The Lioness of Southport would have wanted this thing to be about twenty five or maybe even thirty feet taller. Probably placed in the center of some open square or plaza. The foundation of Kima Saik was one built on unshakable confidence, skill, and much more.

That minor observation aside? It is a lovely figurine that I'll be thankful to have placed in my possession.

Written By Leona

Jan. 24, 2018, 10:10 a.m.(1/11/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Miles

Since coming to the King's Own, Sir Miles has been the grumpiest - ahem - stodgiest...er... Scholar, what's the right word?

Irascible. The most irascible presence of my acquaintance. But it comes from a good place, and I am confident as I make my plans that he will continue to make sure that the Hundred are in the best health, and that we are reminded to dodge early and dodge often. And if the Fear of Miles reminds people to be a little more careful, a little tighter on the defense, a little less likely to do the heroically stupid thing and a little more likely to come back with a mission accomplished well and thoroughly - but not foolishly - then I will continue to be glad for his service.

Written By Hadrian

Jan. 24, 2018, 9:58 a.m.(1/11/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Theron

The Sword of Ostria, Defender of the Walled City, Servant of Allegiance. Fantastic hair, winning smile, a way with words, and all-around wonderful presence. I've yet to get a crisp high five from him, but that day is coming. It is a pleasure to have met and slowly began to know Lord Theron, because while he's a man with a sword. He's more than just his sword or his role as the Sword of House Mazetti. I've personally witnessed him making full and competent use of a spoon, without harming himself or others. Consider me both impressed and proud.

Written By Talen

Jan. 24, 2018, 9:53 a.m.(1/11/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Luca

There's a spare couch here whenever you need it.

Written By Hadrian

Jan. 24, 2018, 9:53 a.m.(1/11/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Cambria

While marks were cleared away and a fresh slate provided as my gift to you at the time of one year in mild loathing with one another? Never forget that tomorrow is a brand new day and a brand new slate. I've even had chalk purchased for the occasion.

Aside from that fact, I've never been as enthusiastic about dispensing marks and reviews as you've seemed to indicate.

Exaggerating? That'll be a mark.

Written By Margerie

Jan. 24, 2018, 9:51 a.m.(1/11/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Kael

I have noticed that many of the happy memories shared have a bittersweet tone in them - complicated relationships, moments of something like light in bleak time. I've had moments of cheer untouched by anger or sadness, but I can go along with the theme and perhaps make a gift to my nephew and a peace offering to his cousin, Baroness Blackshore. It is a memory of someone else's happiness.

Nadine was so very happy for a time. It started with those small, bashful looks that would arise for no apparent reason to her younger siblings. Grins at the oddest moments. Rushed partings in the middle of conversations after getting a message, always with the flimsiest of reasons, always with the fleetest of feet.
She only really confided in me the once, one giddy evening talking about how handsome he was, his smile, how absolutely smitten and in love she was.

There was a time, my dear nephew, when your mother was at her happiest, and it was your father that made it so. It may all have gone amiss, but you should know that much was done right. She would be proud of you as I am.

Written By Sparte

Jan. 24, 2018, 9:42 a.m.(1/11/1008 AR)

Dear Diary,

I thought it was just a concussion when I heard those things, but other people quickly clarified that yes, loud things were shouted and feelings were hurt.

I want to take a moment to step back. Less than a month ago I was promoted to Officer and put in charge of far more people than I frankly feel I can do justice. Those people now rely on my choices and my word to carry them through the dangers ahead. Others are in charge of far, far more than I am. It is difficult, it is stressful, and you are expected to carry the burden without ever showing that you're less capable of weathering the storm than the mountains.

I don't know that I agree with that way of doing things. I've been taking time to get to know those people who directly answer to me. I'm spreading the responsibilities, but I'm also spreading the recognition. I never want to be in a position where everything rides on a split second decision, where if I hesitate or I'm unprepared others will be paralyzed by it.

I want the people who look to me to know I look back to them. That I see no effort as wasted, nor demand respect for the sake of my authority over them. I want to use that authority sparingly, so I have asked them to work with me in other ways. Share their goals, share their vision, and let us together find a way to be great. Maybe not 'none greater' great, but great.

I think I can only get away with that because I am from the rank and file. I'm left feeling bad for those who never experienced being on the bottom, and hope I never forget what it was to be there.

Written By Mydas

Jan. 24, 2018, 9:38 a.m.(1/11/1008 AR)

Nothing like arguing in the White Journals to display the unity required to face a dangerous enemy.

Written By Lou

Jan. 24, 2018, 9:31 a.m.(1/11/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Reese

Princess Reese is the best person I know, who sacrifices all of herself for the military and the support staff every time she goes out in the field. She personally feels responsible for every death, even if those deaths are not something she can control. She is a true leader, who does everything she can to protect countless lives of not only the Grayson family, but the Compact itself. She also happens to be my sister, and I'm immensely proud of her and her efforts - otherwise I would not follow her into battle as often as I do.

Written By Edward

Jan. 24, 2018, 9:31 a.m.(1/11/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Reese

The Princess is a fantastic warrior and a far better representative of her House than some of the Voices over her. Of all the traits, good and bad I might ascribe to her, spoiled would never be one of them.

Written By Belladonna

Jan. 24, 2018, 9:24 a.m.(1/11/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Shard

I did say Princess, not just person in general. It is a significant differefence. Beyond that, I do not think that giving things away qualifies one as spoiled.

Written By Lucita

Jan. 24, 2018, 9:12 a.m.(1/11/1008 AR)

A good memory? It was when very young, still considered a child and was the first time I remember singing and played formally for a small gathering of family and friends in Granato, sharing the music I love with them. I was nervous, one hand twisting in an instrument carry-strap till it bit into my fingers, the other holding a wrinkled scrap of paper listing the songs, reminding of some of the more difficult lyrics. At first there was bored tolerance or indulgence on the faces of the listening adults, except for my tutor. The children, cousins showed impatience to get it over with and move on to fun things. And then I played and sang, my reward to see my sister's mouth hang open, my brother wide-eyed and nodding, my cousins quiet and not fidgeting, a misty-eyed look of pride on my tutor's face, and the expression of surprise and then enjoyment of guests. It made the long hours of practice, memorizing, and the sore fingers and hands all worthwhile.

Written By Theron

Jan. 24, 2018, 8:37 a.m.(1/11/1008 AR)

For sake of brevity, here's an old, happy memory:

I had just fought and won my first duel. Father, who had helped me train up until that point, patted me on the shoulder and said:

"Well done."

I was very pleased with myself, barely fifteen years old, but winning duels already.

Written By Cristoph

Jan. 24, 2018, 8:32 a.m.(1/11/1008 AR)

I heard there was some unpleasantness at the end of the big free for all at the training grounds. I didn't notice it myself, I was having a spectacular time teaming up with Sir Norwood. I found myself wishing Count Kael was there. Next time! All the combatants were skilled opponents.

And Lady Margerie was kind enough to help me up after several poor attempts to wrestle Sir Norwood to the ground. It's good to have friends!

Written By Mason

Jan. 24, 2018, 8:30 a.m.(1/11/1008 AR)

I've recently learned of some things that make my heart feel heavier than I thought it capable. I know that I am guilty of vagueness, but I often forget to put my thoughts to paper, despite my many hours at the archives.

I try to spend a lot of time listening to people and hearing their stories. I have learned over the years that we all have our burdens to bear. Some more than others, that is certain, and I do not take any of the blessings of life I have received for granted. I know how fortunate my birth was. I fully understand the benefits of title and rank. One thing that is not shielded by nobility, however, is sorrow. There is enough of that to go around for all.

I truly hope the friends that have been gracious enough to trust me recently know that I think of them, and try to share some small piece of the burden they face.

Written By Felicia

Jan. 24, 2018, 8:22 a.m.(1/11/1008 AR)

I'm pretty sure that if I asked a Scholar to write this for me, they could come up with a hundred better ways of saying it than me. The poetry of words would do justice to the gift I've been given, but instead there's just me.

This thing. This beautiful, impractical thing that I have been gifted with, must have cost a fortune, but Gods its lovely. Mistress Alarie is truly a master of her craft, and there's not words to describe the honour of having been gifted it. To call it merely a belt would be to insult its craftsmanship, and it deserves a far more eloquent tongue than mine to do it justice.

I'll never complain about being assigned a dawn shift after a night of drinking ever again.

Written By Fatima

Jan. 24, 2018, 8:09 a.m.(1/11/1008 AR)

To honor the request of good memories to be recorded:

Donrai Thrax, Prince of Maelstrom and Highlord of the Isles, once said to me, "You are the least disappointing of my grandchildren."

I'm quite certain he meant only in that particular moment, and I cannot even remember what it was for, but his praise was so sparing that those words have stuck with me. As I got older I realized he said LEAST disappointing, which still isn't saying I wasn't disappointing.

In this, though, I shall be a spoiled princess and choose to claim the memory with my own recollection and assume he meant something nicer.

Written By Derovai

Jan. 24, 2018, 8:04 a.m.(1/11/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Thena

It's almost like you don't want to let me have fun at your expense. Nevertheless, the lyrics are out there now, and they only need reach the eyes of a wiling and talented musical composer. I will do my best to ensure that they do.

Written By Thena

Jan. 24, 2018, 7:24 a.m.(1/11/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Derovai

No.

Written By Audric

Jan. 24, 2018, 6:59 a.m.(1/11/1008 AR)

When she comes around again, I hope she spots the little tweaks to her figurine that I advised on and appreciates them. I didn't have all my minions buy all of them, which was a monumental effort of willpower on my part.

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