Written By Denica
Sept. 20, 2017, 2:32 p.m.(4/2/1007 AR)
What do you do when you ARE a member of a House that has the rest of the Compact's focus?
When you are forced to study an image that reminds you that your culture prizes coin over human life. Reminding you that human beings who can be bought and sold as commodities like cattle, forced to work as they pay off their debts. No, it's not the same as the slave auctions of Eurus, but the demand that slavery in _all_ of its forms must come to an end.
That we, as Thrax, that have grown serious about living our lives and honoring the gods as we have - we should, we need be striving to make that happen today. It's going to take such a long time, but we need to begin somewhere. We devalue and humiliate the guilty. We need to find different ways of judgement and punishment. We need to eradicate the discriminatory injustice. We need to protect, respect, and educate the freed outright. We need to reform the system. We need to tear it down to the foundations and rebuild it in such a way that regulates it and moderates it. We are set apart from the rest of the Compact by Thralldom, and, we have been shown that in order to be successful against our enemies we need to be unified.
Does this mean conforming? To a degree, yes. We are long past time. We have moved beyond that dark chapter of our history, and long past time for all believers to take more of a stand. Because on this issue we can unquestionably stand together.
Only through challenge will we grow.
Written By Aleksei
Sept. 20, 2017, 1:19 p.m.(4/2/1007 AR)
To say I was stunned would be something of an understatement. We had almost forty people in attendance at the opening of the Freedom art show, which is, by the way, a pretty big number for that room. Everyone managed, though, and there was such thoughtful conversation about all of the pieces. The amount of money we've already raised for our efforts are humbling, to say the least.
Out of the many pieces in the show, only one of them was centered on the topic of thralldom, but it's not surprising that people are going to talk a lot about the topic that is closest to home for all of us. The Compact thankfully outlawed slavery in centuries past, and it's true that the slavery of the compact is not the auction bloc and chains of Eurus, but we have our own forms. I've never made much secret of the official stance of the Faith on the subject of thralldom, but the efforts I've envisioned since I took my vows go even farther than that. There's so much work to do.
I'll say this, though: there are cultural differences between the areas of the Compact, yes. The Mourning Isles is not the only kingdom with its own values, in fact. But it has always been the place of the Faith to guide the moral laws of the Compact. And we can't treat the institution of thralldom as a simple cultural difference when it runs contrary to the virtues of the gods themselves. Which is why the Liberators have taken it upon themselves to make the purchase of thrall debt and their reintegration into free Compact society part of its core mission. We're working within the current laws of the various domains of the Isles, of course. It just means that when you put a price on someone's freedom, you never know who might be willing to come along and purchase it.
I'm so excited for what lies ahead.
Out of the many pieces in the show, only one of them was centered on the topic of thralldom, but it's not surprising that people are going to talk a lot about the topic that is closest to home for all of us. The Compact thankfully outlawed slavery in centuries past, and it's true that the slavery of the compact is not the auction bloc and chains of Eurus, but we have our own forms. I've never made much secret of the official stance of the Faith on the subject of thralldom, but the efforts I've envisioned since I took my vows go even farther than that. There's so much work to do.
I'll say this, though: there are cultural differences between the areas of the Compact, yes. The Mourning Isles is not the only kingdom with its own values, in fact. But it has always been the place of the Faith to guide the moral laws of the Compact. And we can't treat the institution of thralldom as a simple cultural difference when it runs contrary to the virtues of the gods themselves. Which is why the Liberators have taken it upon themselves to make the purchase of thrall debt and their reintegration into free Compact society part of its core mission. We're working within the current laws of the various domains of the Isles, of course. It just means that when you put a price on someone's freedom, you never know who might be willing to come along and purchase it.
I'm so excited for what lies ahead.
Written By Eirene
Sept. 20, 2017, 1:06 p.m.(4/2/1007 AR)
Father Orazio, who himself comes from the City of Swords, pointed out we do offer choice to those who have no heart or stomach for military service, even the non-violent yet essential roles I pointed out. They may always swear to the Crown or Faith and maintain the vows and requirements of said fealties instead of our own. So they have that choice, which is more than slaves or thralls may be offered.
See, perfectly fucking capable of making an intelligent statement without punctuating it with obscenities. Oh wait. Shit. I said fuck, didn't I. Dammit...
See, perfectly fucking capable of making an intelligent statement without punctuating it with obscenities. Oh wait. Shit. I said fuck, didn't I. Dammit...
Written By Katarina
Sept. 20, 2017, 12:07 p.m.(4/2/1007 AR)
I promised Countess Reigna and Lord Corban that I would return unscathed, or at the very least salvagable by her hands or that of the Mother Mercy. I told them that I would, that the Unsullied has been true to her name through skirmishes in the Eventide Vast, into the artic waters of the North, and across the Mourning Sea.
This is a dangerous thing we're doing, Dagon and I. In the event that we do not make it back, I've prepared a will and set aside funds to go to the families of my crew to honor their service and dedication to protecting those we love.
This is a dangerous thing we're doing, Dagon and I. In the event that we do not make it back, I've prepared a will and set aside funds to go to the families of my crew to honor their service and dedication to protecting those we love.
Written By Aleksei
Sept. 20, 2017, 11:18 a.m.(4/2/1007 AR)
The Liberators of Skald are proud to present the art show Freedom featuring work by Fortunato Grayhope and an anonymous contributor. The show will appear in the inner sanctum of the Shrine of the First Choice for a month, at which time the individual pieces will be auctioned.
Donations are currently being accepted, to which the auction proceeds will be contributed to, to support the Liberators of Skald in purchasing thrall debts and beginning a relocation and reintegration program that will become a core aspect of the Skald discipleship. Newly-freed citizens of the Compact will receive assistance from the Faith in relocating to any parish in the Compact, where they will be provided with temporary room and board and aid in securing work or apprenticeships with an aim to see every one of these citizens thriving and supporting themselves in their new lives.
Donations may be submitted to Blessed Aleksei Morgan or Prince Mason Grayson.
Donations are currently being accepted, to which the auction proceeds will be contributed to, to support the Liberators of Skald in purchasing thrall debts and beginning a relocation and reintegration program that will become a core aspect of the Skald discipleship. Newly-freed citizens of the Compact will receive assistance from the Faith in relocating to any parish in the Compact, where they will be provided with temporary room and board and aid in securing work or apprenticeships with an aim to see every one of these citizens thriving and supporting themselves in their new lives.
Donations may be submitted to Blessed Aleksei Morgan or Prince Mason Grayson.
Written By Nisaa
Sept. 20, 2017, 10:25 a.m.(4/2/1007 AR)
Last evening, I attended the art showing for the Freedom Art Show. It was long ago that Prince Mason Grayson spoke to me about his idea for this showing. We had a disagreement of opinions on likening something to a slave auction, and in effort to understand one another's thoughts, he invited me to tea to speak on it. I was thankful for his willingness to be open minded, and appreciated his view, even if I still did not wholly be agreeing with it. At the time, Malik was going to offer his paintings to the show as well. But he left before it took place.
A long time passed when I heard nothing about the show. I was disappointed when I heard that it was happening, because I had offered to dance for it on that long ago day and I was not contacted. I had wished to tell the story of a slave becoming free with my movements. I had felt forgotten, and maybe I was. However, when I arrived at the show, I was so overcomed with emotion at some of the paintings, one in particular, that had I not been prepared before hand to see them, I am not sure I would have been able to dance. Some of the paintings, as they say, hit too close to the home. One was a direct stabbing in my heart.
I am still saddened that I could not take part in the show, given perspective as a former slave, but I am glad that the topic is being brought to the light, even though Thralldom was more the focus than slavery. They are alike, but yet different. With the profound talent of the Mister Fortunato Grayhope, people were given a chance to visualize and imagine the pain that can be happening. Perhaps it will bring deeper understanding.
I am gladdened that Mayir Grayhope was in attendance. He is a new friend, and being one that helped to calm my emotions in the moment, and in the end, let me enjoy bits and pieces of the night.
I am sorry I was unable to socialize with more of the crowd, and truthfully, it was so large and I so affected, I did not even notice who half of the people were. I caught a glimpse of Princess Denica Thrax, but was not able to speak with her. Nor was I able to speak with Saedrus, or Lady Lucita Igniseri. Prince Mason briefly spoke, but as host, had to flit away. I am hoping to speak again to these people soon.
And to hopefully not be forgotten.
A long time passed when I heard nothing about the show. I was disappointed when I heard that it was happening, because I had offered to dance for it on that long ago day and I was not contacted. I had wished to tell the story of a slave becoming free with my movements. I had felt forgotten, and maybe I was. However, when I arrived at the show, I was so overcomed with emotion at some of the paintings, one in particular, that had I not been prepared before hand to see them, I am not sure I would have been able to dance. Some of the paintings, as they say, hit too close to the home. One was a direct stabbing in my heart.
I am still saddened that I could not take part in the show, given perspective as a former slave, but I am glad that the topic is being brought to the light, even though Thralldom was more the focus than slavery. They are alike, but yet different. With the profound talent of the Mister Fortunato Grayhope, people were given a chance to visualize and imagine the pain that can be happening. Perhaps it will bring deeper understanding.
I am gladdened that Mayir Grayhope was in attendance. He is a new friend, and being one that helped to calm my emotions in the moment, and in the end, let me enjoy bits and pieces of the night.
I am sorry I was unable to socialize with more of the crowd, and truthfully, it was so large and I so affected, I did not even notice who half of the people were. I caught a glimpse of Princess Denica Thrax, but was not able to speak with her. Nor was I able to speak with Saedrus, or Lady Lucita Igniseri. Prince Mason briefly spoke, but as host, had to flit away. I am hoping to speak again to these people soon.
And to hopefully not be forgotten.
Written By Eirene
Sept. 20, 2017, 9:19 a.m.(4/2/1007 AR)
Went to the Freedom art exhibit.
Southport demands military service of her citizens. They are expected to serve. That is to say, we don't force them into a role they're not cut out for; those who wish not to fight nor cannot fight are a liability on a battlefield. This is why there is logistics and morale and medics like my own. Everyone serves to the best of their capacity, but everyone serves.
Just musing aloud.
Southport demands military service of her citizens. They are expected to serve. That is to say, we don't force them into a role they're not cut out for; those who wish not to fight nor cannot fight are a liability on a battlefield. This is why there is logistics and morale and medics like my own. Everyone serves to the best of their capacity, but everyone serves.
Just musing aloud.
Written By Eirene
Sept. 20, 2017, 9:17 a.m.(4/2/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Doll
It was, as I put it, looking into a dark dirty mirror.
Do I really curse that much and look like a vulgar streetrat? Shitfire. See, there I go. Second nature. But I suppose as a commander of live-battle troops it's expected. Almost cherished. I at least have some tact and not every other word out of my mouth is a Limerance-damned obscenity.
Do I really curse that much and look like a vulgar streetrat? Shitfire. See, there I go. Second nature. But I suppose as a commander of live-battle troops it's expected. Almost cherished. I at least have some tact and not every other word out of my mouth is a Limerance-damned obscenity.
Written By Mason
Sept. 20, 2017, 8:19 a.m.(4/2/1007 AR)
I am stunned and eternally gratified at the number of people that came to the art show reception last night. The generosity of the people of Arx never ceases to amaze me, even after the four years I have lived here.
I hope to spend as much time as I can over at the shrine in the next few weeks so that I can speak with people about the artwork and answer questions. I cannot say at this time just how many thralls we will be able to pay debts for as the numbers are all quite varied, but I am very moved by the amount of silver that has been donated and look forward to seeing the money put to good use in freeing people from servitude.
My endless thanks to both Fortunato Grayhope for putting my vision to canvas, and to Blessed Aleksei for his ceaseless support and enthusiasm for this project.
I hope to spend as much time as I can over at the shrine in the next few weeks so that I can speak with people about the artwork and answer questions. I cannot say at this time just how many thralls we will be able to pay debts for as the numbers are all quite varied, but I am very moved by the amount of silver that has been donated and look forward to seeing the money put to good use in freeing people from servitude.
My endless thanks to both Fortunato Grayhope for putting my vision to canvas, and to Blessed Aleksei for his ceaseless support and enthusiasm for this project.
Written By Audric
Sept. 20, 2017, 2:37 a.m.(4/1/1007 AR)
I have been a bad man for my entire life. I still am, I don't deny that. I don't take prisoners - they get the choice between joining the Few, or losing their weapons and their boots. Yes, the latter is likely death. I support Aleksei's push for freedom for thralls, too. I don't support those against it, so I'll say it here: If you want to defend Thralldom, and want someone to fight, I throw down my sword. I am Baron Audric De Lire, Captain-General of the Valorous Few and Castellan of Afflua, and I accept any challenge. I'm no disciple of Skald, but I am a man that defends freedom of choice. If you're feeling froggy, well, as the saying goes. Leap.
Written By Silas
Sept. 20, 2017, 2:20 a.m.(4/1/1007 AR)
I'm glad winter is finally over and it doesn't have to be freezing any more.
I HATE snow.
I HATE snow.
Written By Valery
Sept. 20, 2017, 2:09 a.m.(4/1/1007 AR)
Spring is here!! And the plants are starting to grow!!!
Written By Valery
Sept. 20, 2017, 2:08 a.m.(4/1/1007 AR)
I got the plushie of Boots. It's almost as great as him.
It took me a while to convince the children that -this- plushie was mine, so I went to buy one for them... And they were all gone!
It took me a while to convince the children that -this- plushie was mine, so I went to buy one for them... And they were all gone!
Written By Arcelia
Sept. 20, 2017, 2 a.m.(4/1/1007 AR)
One thing to note on the difficulties of navigating thralldom is that there is a cultural barrier between a good portion of The Compact and Thrax Houses here. One does not go to another land and start dictating to its people how they should or shouldn't live, that is how many war begins. Removing Thralldom is not something that can be done over night and is something that should be gone about with a delicate hand if it is to be gone about. Challenging people to duels over debt as a matter of dishonor is a breech of cultural habits, pressing your own beliefs on others and invading their lives because you simply disagree with the style of life, and is likely to cause problems. However, going about trying to change the minds of the people and get it to resolve in a more natural format, through political maneuvering, is more likely to see the desired results and less likely to see loss of lives. Consider your approach to this carefully. We do not need to fight a war among ourselves when we have enemies coming at us from all sides.
Written By Edward
Sept. 20, 2017, 1:43 a.m.(4/1/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Lydia
Well luckily the practice of serfdom provides you with an easy answer...you take all they own and leave them destitute and with no more than the dirt to scrabble in. And when that is not enough to settle the debt owed to you then you are forced to absorb the rest as a loss to you or your House.
Written By Felicia
Sept. 20, 2017, 1:05 a.m.(4/1/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Hana
Hana is surprisingly sweet and handy when it comes to forging blades. I hope to see more of her soon. Perhaps I'll purchase a new sword. It needs the King's Own mark but it could be made of something fancier than steel if I can wrangle the price... Hmm.
Written By Serafine
Sept. 20, 2017, 12:47 a.m.(4/1/1007 AR)
I get to go on a boat! A real boat! A ship!
I'm so excited!
An adventure!
I'm so excited!
An adventure!
Written By Lydia
Sept. 19, 2017, 11:25 p.m.(4/1/1007 AR)
Fortunato Grayhope's art exhibition, "Freedom", has given me pause to think on the nature of debt and repayment. The Thrax use thrallship as a means to secure a debt... renege financially and you'll work off your debt in servitude. If we postulate, as Fortunato appears to have done, that this is not a desirable consequence what alternatives do we have? Surely to renege on a debt is an affront to honor, should we settle such matters by duel? Or like a breach of contract, if it were judicially adjudicated, what binding decision would have any impact on one so impoverished to be in such a situation? As they say, one cannot get blood from a stone. If it were to be a crime, would some sort of debtors prison be any different than thrallship? And how do any of these benefit the injured party? No such case has come before me yet as Duchess. How am I to decide?
Written By Saedrus
Sept. 19, 2017, 10:34 p.m.(4/1/1007 AR)
An absolutely phenomenal event. Master Fortunato outdid himself; I think every person that came into the exhibit was struck by the art. I am grateful for the efforts of Fortunato, Prince Mason and Aleksei to bring such a compelling evening together. Striking and unique, it was an evening with a message that I do not think could be easily brought forward by word of mouth alone, the harrowing and dreadful aspect of thraldom, of chains and slavery of which we do not always see but hear of, and the sort that has, for the most part, only existed in tales. Then of course, those chain we which we know too well.
Thanks too should be giving to all that attended, for those that were willing to listen, partake and that had something --even something small-- to offer in aid of the cause. There are so many names of so many people that have done so, and to each I am thankful.
An exceptional, though dauntingly eye-opening night.
Thanks too should be giving to all that attended, for those that were willing to listen, partake and that had something --even something small-- to offer in aid of the cause. There are so many names of so many people that have done so, and to each I am thankful.
An exceptional, though dauntingly eye-opening night.
Written By Morrighan
Sept. 19, 2017, 10:08 p.m.(4/1/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Fortunato
He is indeed a master of his craft, his work is beautiful.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.