Written By Skye
April 19, 2019, 5:01 a.m.(12/13/1010 AR)
When I was a little girl, my uncle would punish me for seeking knowledge that was not meant for me to have. He tried to stem my intellectual curiosity with fear and pain. As if he could crush my spark with the reed across my knuckles. I still bear the marks of his cruelty upon my hands. I have worn gloves over these scars ever since.
His study, where he hid all the best books, was forbidden to me. When I would venture into his inner sanctum, he would take a reed to the bottoms of my feet. Then he would make me walk on my wounds until I fell to my knees. He would crow that such a weak creature was too delicate to stand against Thraxian traditions. My gender should be regaled to more delicate things, not battle or ship making.
When unmarried men would visit our keep, he would send me to my room. It's laughable to think that my reputation was more precious than my hands and feet. Even now I see other traditionalists, like my uncle, take steps to keep the divides in place. Some are just words on paper while others take darker methods to make their point against men and women who are strong enough to stand against outdated, twisted systems that bleed our souls. My tears in the wake of their destruction does not make me less of a person.
To the angry whispers who live in the past. Step into the light and embrace the new beginning. Work diligently to shore up your fiances and plan for a day when thralls no longer work upon your lands. Change is coming. The best thing you can do for your people is plan and prepare.
His study, where he hid all the best books, was forbidden to me. When I would venture into his inner sanctum, he would take a reed to the bottoms of my feet. Then he would make me walk on my wounds until I fell to my knees. He would crow that such a weak creature was too delicate to stand against Thraxian traditions. My gender should be regaled to more delicate things, not battle or ship making.
When unmarried men would visit our keep, he would send me to my room. It's laughable to think that my reputation was more precious than my hands and feet. Even now I see other traditionalists, like my uncle, take steps to keep the divides in place. Some are just words on paper while others take darker methods to make their point against men and women who are strong enough to stand against outdated, twisted systems that bleed our souls. My tears in the wake of their destruction does not make me less of a person.
To the angry whispers who live in the past. Step into the light and embrace the new beginning. Work diligently to shore up your fiances and plan for a day when thralls no longer work upon your lands. Change is coming. The best thing you can do for your people is plan and prepare.
Written By Skye
April 7, 2019, 7:18 a.m.(11/17/1010 AR)
We are unique creatures with our own collection of stories that are compiled together by a lifetime of experiences. Because none of those backgrounds, life events and ancestry are the same, we are fundamentally alone. There will never be another. The gods broke the mold when they made you. Oh sure, you can surround yourself with others that are of similar bloodlines, histories and experiences to stave off that horrible truth. When you close your eyes to sleep, it is with that understanding that you forge ahead in your cranium with singular purpose. A unique story that has a beginning, middle and end.
Not all stories are written well. Yes, it's horrible and terrible but true. I for one prefer to be a book worth reading. More importantly, I want to cross my story into other tales to build an anthology of epic proportions. When someone writes The End, I want that impression to live on and influence other lives. Because there is no other parchment paper sitting that can be woven into the binding. No do over. Every day I have one chance to get it right. Or to get it wrong. Or to bore my readers. Oh what a tragic moment that would be. At the very least be a bit entertaining. Remember that while we are all alone in ourselves, we can not exist without the other. Now that my friend is another entry.
Not all stories are written well. Yes, it's horrible and terrible but true. I for one prefer to be a book worth reading. More importantly, I want to cross my story into other tales to build an anthology of epic proportions. When someone writes The End, I want that impression to live on and influence other lives. Because there is no other parchment paper sitting that can be woven into the binding. No do over. Every day I have one chance to get it right. Or to get it wrong. Or to bore my readers. Oh what a tragic moment that would be. At the very least be a bit entertaining. Remember that while we are all alone in ourselves, we can not exist without the other. Now that my friend is another entry.
Written By Skye
March 29, 2019, 5:08 a.m.(10/27/1010 AR)
When I was a little girl, my best friend was Horacio. He was the cook's son, and would sneak me treats when my uncle was cross at me. He always tried to shoulder my childhood burdens and do silly things to make me laugh when life would get to be too much. He had such dreams of running away and becoming a legendary hero. He'd point to the big ships in the bay and tell me about all the adventures he would have. For some reason in all our childhood games, I was the damsel he was going to rescue. He would get very angry at me if I tried to rescue him.
Then we grew up, and reality of our differences drove a divide. My mother who never minded our playful antics suddenly asked me to stop spending time with him. It wasn't appropriate. Horacio pushed me away, telling me that a fine lady had no place spending time in his company. He had his duties to see to. It seemed like the world had very clear definitions on what role each one of us had to play. Any time I tried to spend time with my best friend, it was now a crime. He turned his eye towards other girls, their laughter had a different ring. It was hard at first. Being turned away at every moment. Being put back in my place. Being reminded of my family's expectations.
They call it growing up. Part of me pines for the days where I didn't see any divides. Part of me wonders what would have happened if he had left the isle to seek his fortune. Maybe he'd still be here, instead of perishing in the destruction. We were not born into the same circumstances but he was the best of friends. I miss his youthful exuberance, his laughing eyes and teasing ways. I mourn the man he will never get to be. He was a true friend to a lonely little girl who lived in a tower.
Then we grew up, and reality of our differences drove a divide. My mother who never minded our playful antics suddenly asked me to stop spending time with him. It wasn't appropriate. Horacio pushed me away, telling me that a fine lady had no place spending time in his company. He had his duties to see to. It seemed like the world had very clear definitions on what role each one of us had to play. Any time I tried to spend time with my best friend, it was now a crime. He turned his eye towards other girls, their laughter had a different ring. It was hard at first. Being turned away at every moment. Being put back in my place. Being reminded of my family's expectations.
They call it growing up. Part of me pines for the days where I didn't see any divides. Part of me wonders what would have happened if he had left the isle to seek his fortune. Maybe he'd still be here, instead of perishing in the destruction. We were not born into the same circumstances but he was the best of friends. I miss his youthful exuberance, his laughing eyes and teasing ways. I mourn the man he will never get to be. He was a true friend to a lonely little girl who lived in a tower.
Written By Skye
March 26, 2019, 8:21 a.m.(10/21/1010 AR)
There's a certain level of pride one feels when you're at the ground floor of change. As infrastructure efforts ramp up for House Thrax, I can not help but marvel at all that needs to be done to prepare for thralldom's abolition. While seven years seems like such a long time, I am sure it will pass swiftly with all that's needed. While houses have been slow to reach out to me for assistance. I am sure in a few months, I shall be cursing at all the activities needed as the Minister of Infrastructure to Thrax, as well as my own obligations to my people as baroness.
A friend recently asked me when I'll have time to find a husband. I couldn't help but laugh, because I have no idea. Perhaps in time, I'll find a good partner, one that shall join my vision on making Blackshore Isle successful. Until that day, I shall focus on rebuilding my lands and serving those who reside in the Mourning Isles.
A friend recently asked me when I'll have time to find a husband. I couldn't help but laugh, because I have no idea. Perhaps in time, I'll find a good partner, one that shall join my vision on making Blackshore Isle successful. Until that day, I shall focus on rebuilding my lands and serving those who reside in the Mourning Isles.
Written By Skye
March 20, 2019, 1:37 a.m.(10/9/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Ford
Marquis Ford Kennex was not a close friend of mine. We met socially upon a few occasions and our exchanges were brief. I've had more time with his extended family, many whom I'm rather fond of. His death is a horrible tragedy that should have never happened.
For his murderers who committed this foul deed: You absolute fools. You made him from a mere mortal with flaws like all of us to a shining light against the injustices practiced by thralldom. His name has become a rallying cry for those who would seek its abolition. You have rallied an army of outrage against your cause. Marquis Ford Kennex will live forever in our minds and hearts because your actions have made him a martyr. In the next Assembly of Peers when his family nominates him to be added to the Hall of Heroes, they will have my support.
Your fearmongering and terror that you wished to spread? Know that you failed. We are not afraid. We are resolved. We will lean on our allies to build our defenses against future atrocities. House Blackshore continues to be thrall-free. As a young leader finding her way, I am grateful to the man that came before me and showed me it was possible. Thank you Marquis Ford Kennex for your legacy. Your March inspired my own. I hope that I am worthy enough to continue the journey that you have started.
For his murderers who committed this foul deed: You absolute fools. You made him from a mere mortal with flaws like all of us to a shining light against the injustices practiced by thralldom. His name has become a rallying cry for those who would seek its abolition. You have rallied an army of outrage against your cause. Marquis Ford Kennex will live forever in our minds and hearts because your actions have made him a martyr. In the next Assembly of Peers when his family nominates him to be added to the Hall of Heroes, they will have my support.
Your fearmongering and terror that you wished to spread? Know that you failed. We are not afraid. We are resolved. We will lean on our allies to build our defenses against future atrocities. House Blackshore continues to be thrall-free. As a young leader finding her way, I am grateful to the man that came before me and showed me it was possible. Thank you Marquis Ford Kennex for your legacy. Your March inspired my own. I hope that I am worthy enough to continue the journey that you have started.
Written By Skye
March 12, 2019, 5:54 p.m.(9/22/1010 AR)
When I began this journey as Baroness of Blackshore, I made a conscious choice to abolish the practice of thralldom. While its original intention was to give harden criminals a chance to pay back their debts to society, it twisted into a practice that spanned debt across generations. At its worst examples, became what many claimed as slavery.
Thralldom does not define who we are as a nation. Our legacy is not tied to indentured servitude. We should not diminish our independence by holding onto this flawed economic structure anymore. Our dependency weakens us. It holds us back. It sours our relations with other houses. We are better than that. By our high lord's declaration, he has freed us from the chains of this flawed tradition, and allowed us to return to our fierce naval roots. I am proud to stand by Thrax decision to abolish thralldom.
Thralldom does not define who we are as a nation. Our legacy is not tied to indentured servitude. We should not diminish our independence by holding onto this flawed economic structure anymore. Our dependency weakens us. It holds us back. It sours our relations with other houses. We are better than that. By our high lord's declaration, he has freed us from the chains of this flawed tradition, and allowed us to return to our fierce naval roots. I am proud to stand by Thrax decision to abolish thralldom.
Written By Skye
March 6, 2019, 3:08 a.m.(9/9/1010 AR)
My mother taught me how to paint by candlelight on the walls of our room. Red, blue, green and yellow flecks on her nightgown. Her fingers stained by her muse. Her shining eyes laughing at me when she would flick paint on my nose.
Time took her from me piece by piece, tear by tear. But she never lost that light. Even when her body failed her, she smiled through the pain. She was brave for me. It's taken me years to appreciate just how hard it was to keep her spirits up when every new day brought her closer to the end.
I wish I had told her. That I looked beyond my bedtime stories to see that real heroes don't always have bardic songs dedicated to their memory.
Time took her from me piece by piece, tear by tear. But she never lost that light. Even when her body failed her, she smiled through the pain. She was brave for me. It's taken me years to appreciate just how hard it was to keep her spirits up when every new day brought her closer to the end.
I wish I had told her. That I looked beyond my bedtime stories to see that real heroes don't always have bardic songs dedicated to their memory.
Written By Skye
Feb. 25, 2019, 2:35 a.m.(8/19/1010 AR)
When I was a little girl, my mother would tell me bedtime stories of dashing sea captains, villainous pirates and monsters of the deep. Every damsel had a prince to rescue her. Every villain got his just desserts by the end of the tale. Everyone lived happily ever after.
It was an illusion, a gentle fabrication to entertain me to sleep. It wasn't a roadmap to live my life. Yes, monsters exist but they rarely show their true face unless you look deeply into the mirror. Villians may have their reasons for flying the black flag. Heroes can indulge in the hubris of their own greatness.
At the end of the day there's no prince to save the princess. If she wants out of that tower, she has to rescue herself. That's a story I want to tell my future daughter. Whenever in time I find that pragmatic partner who wields more than just steel in his hand.
It was an illusion, a gentle fabrication to entertain me to sleep. It wasn't a roadmap to live my life. Yes, monsters exist but they rarely show their true face unless you look deeply into the mirror. Villians may have their reasons for flying the black flag. Heroes can indulge in the hubris of their own greatness.
At the end of the day there's no prince to save the princess. If she wants out of that tower, she has to rescue herself. That's a story I want to tell my future daughter. Whenever in time I find that pragmatic partner who wields more than just steel in his hand.
Written By Skye
Feb. 3, 2019, 2:36 a.m.(7/3/1010 AR)
When I took on the task of rebuilding Blackshore, I made a choice that it would be done without thralldom. That I would never permit indentured servants in my fealty. I have offered a home to orphans, prodigals, and ex-thralls who wished to relocate. With the Crafter's Guild's help, I have created work programs to help train those new arrivals in trade. Kind benefactors have invested in Blackshore's future by offering financial support.
Because my choice had financial consequences on my fealty. It has not been an easy road to take. Many Thrax traditionalists have pointed out that I've made things harder by taking the path less traveled. My fealty might have recovered faster if I wasn't so strong in my opinions on this matter.
It's a path that has been worth taking. I do not know right now the costs of making a change for other fealties, but I do offer to others my services if they need help reviewing their records to figure out how.
Because my choice had financial consequences on my fealty. It has not been an easy road to take. Many Thrax traditionalists have pointed out that I've made things harder by taking the path less traveled. My fealty might have recovered faster if I wasn't so strong in my opinions on this matter.
It's a path that has been worth taking. I do not know right now the costs of making a change for other fealties, but I do offer to others my services if they need help reviewing their records to figure out how.
Written By Skye
Nov. 17, 2018, 9:47 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Jordan
I remember the few times we sat together over board games and honed our military strategy. You had such a clever mind behind the sword. There is a pang to my heart for your loss. I celebrate that you died the way you lived with honor.
Written By Skye
Nov. 17, 2018, 9:37 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
You took me under your wing when I first arrived at Arx. You provided me sound critique on my ship designs and pushed me to be a better shipwright. In the absence of my father, who has been missing from my side these last few years, you filled that role as the gruff advisor. You were kind in your own way to a lost girl who struggled at first after losing her home. You helped me along the path of rebuilding Blackshore.
I celebrate the man you were and there are no tears in your wake. Only deep care and respect for the man you were. Recognition for the incredible impact you had on my life.
I celebrate the man you were and there are no tears in your wake. Only deep care and respect for the man you were. Recognition for the incredible impact you had on my life.
Written By Skye
Nov. 16, 2018, 1:03 p.m.(1/3/1010 AR)
Getting hit by a tree hurts! Especially when it's being wielded as a weapon.
Written By Skye
Nov. 5, 2018, 9:57 a.m.(12/9/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Caith
When I'm feeling sad, shopping is the last thing I want to do.
Perhaps indulging in a favorite hobby? I know that painting always makes me feel better. Or visiting a shrine? Prayer has always brought me great comfort.
Really it's tied to what you find worthwhile.
Perhaps indulging in a favorite hobby? I know that painting always makes me feel better. Or visiting a shrine? Prayer has always brought me great comfort.
Really it's tied to what you find worthwhile.
Written By Skye
Oct. 24, 2018, 2:32 p.m.(11/13/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Joscelin
When I came to Guildmaster Joscelin Arterius, asking for her help to find skilled tradesmen who were willing to relocate to Blackshore Isle, to help me build a fealty within the Mourning Isles that did not practice Thralldom, she provided assistance without hesitation. She has helped me locate skilled journeymen of many origins...orphans, former Thralls, even free men and women who wanted a new opportunity. No matter what their origins, all of them came together to help me rebuild. Since Blackshore Keep has been rebuilt, House Blackshore has enjoyed the prosperity, because of these amazing people that the Guildmaster introduced me to.
There is no words for the circumstances around her husband's death that could lessen the blow that has been given. My heart aches for the loss of that kind man that won this amazing woman's heart. I pray to the Sentinel that those still harboring anger against the changes in the Mourning Isles towards Thralldom, and committed this vile act are found swiftly by the Inquisition and Iron Guard. Know this vile act has not daunted my commitment to keep my lands free from Thralldom. The next time you find offense, bring your complaints to my doorstep. I have an arrow notched in my bow for that very occasion.
There is no words for the circumstances around her husband's death that could lessen the blow that has been given. My heart aches for the loss of that kind man that won this amazing woman's heart. I pray to the Sentinel that those still harboring anger against the changes in the Mourning Isles towards Thralldom, and committed this vile act are found swiftly by the Inquisition and Iron Guard. Know this vile act has not daunted my commitment to keep my lands free from Thralldom. The next time you find offense, bring your complaints to my doorstep. I have an arrow notched in my bow for that very occasion.
Written By Skye
Oct. 16, 2018, 12:24 a.m.(10/15/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Darrow
It gives me great joy to hear that Lord Darrow Darkwater's statue is going to be add soon to the Hall of Heroes.
He helped me on my journey to rebuild Blackshore and I can never repay him for that kindness.
He helped me on my journey to rebuild Blackshore and I can never repay him for that kindness.
Written By Skye
Oct. 12, 2018, 2:47 a.m.(10/7/1009 AR)
It's the simple things in life that bring me pleasure. A warm bath with rose petals by candle light. The soft conversation with an old friend. A good book on an oversized easy chair with my slippers kicked off and my feet curled under my nightgown. The flicker of flame in the fireplace as I sip my tea.
Written By Skye
Sept. 28, 2018, 12:33 a.m.(9/7/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Sparte
That fish was certainly worthy of an epic tale.
Written By Skye
Sept. 24, 2018, 7:31 a.m.(8/27/1009 AR)
Things I've never done...
1) Struck another in anger.
2) Been engaged much less married.
3) Captained my own vessel.
4) Saved someone's life.
5) Traveled outside of the Mourning Isles or Arx.
Apparently war cries elicit fainting spells from me. I'm rather squeamish when it comes to injuring others. I do want to be more, have more adventures. I wonder if there are lessons in building tolerance for such things.
1) Struck another in anger.
2) Been engaged much less married.
3) Captained my own vessel.
4) Saved someone's life.
5) Traveled outside of the Mourning Isles or Arx.
Apparently war cries elicit fainting spells from me. I'm rather squeamish when it comes to injuring others. I do want to be more, have more adventures. I wonder if there are lessons in building tolerance for such things.
Written By Skye
July 16, 2018, 4:35 p.m.(3/15/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Kael
I want to be like you when I grow up cousin. You have achieved something that is truly something to be proud of. While we haven't had dinner together in some time, know that you are in my thoughts daily.
Yes, I did do a double fist pump when I first got the news.
Yes, I did do a double fist pump when I first got the news.
Written By Skye
July 15, 2018, 10:45 a.m.(3/12/1009 AR)
After much soul searching, I think I know what kind of protege that I want to cultivate. A steward or steward-in-training that can help me organize all the reconstruction efforts. Or even maybe help me find a proper residence. Maybe afterwards I can branch into a Champion or someone to help me throw social activities, but really I just need someone strong in economics and stewardship.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.