Written By Ida
Sept. 25, 2016, 8:57 a.m.(9/3/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Tobias
Lord Tobias Telmar, or Lord General, I suppose, is a son of Duke Arn Telmar who apparently had a falling out and returned at the head of a mercenary company, Crimson Blades, some years later. It is likely a tale that had tongues wagging quite a bit, and I do recall it, but I'm rarely one to linger on the scandals of the courts. While there is a certain similar bearing I think I can recognize in the Telmars, father and son are markedly different in person. Regardless, the Lord General had inquired about contracting for weapons for his company, but my duties to House Valardin will always take precedence. For now, the work will be commission based and perhaps an apprentice or journeyman of mine might decide to join his company someday as a more permanent fixture.
Written By Ida
Sept. 25, 2016, 8:42 a.m.(9/3/1004 AR)
After a week spent mostly away from the doings of the city and even the shop (thank Jayus for such skilled journeyman capable of keeping the place for me), I ended my semi-sabbatical by attending the fencing competition hosted by Sir Silas and Lady Dawn. The event placed some of the most skilled swordsmen, as well as a few newer faces to me, the realm has to offer together and the showing certainly did not disappoint. Of course I favored Prince Edain to take the win and he, as he always does, acquitted himself exceptionally well during the tournament!
As it often is, the company in the stands made the event just as enjoyable. Mistress Joscelin has found a partner in her impassioned cheering in Princess Freja, I suspect! Both women are simply amazing and it was nice to speak with her highness again. Met an artist named Fortunato Grayhope who, apparently, also does a bit of blacksmithing. A few new faces I hadn't had occasion to cross paths with yet in the city, though all seemed just as wonderful company as those I knew. Perhaps events like this breed a bit of camaraderie? Who knows. Overall, it was another exciting, well-run event that I am glad I attended.
As it often is, the company in the stands made the event just as enjoyable. Mistress Joscelin has found a partner in her impassioned cheering in Princess Freja, I suspect! Both women are simply amazing and it was nice to speak with her highness again. Met an artist named Fortunato Grayhope who, apparently, also does a bit of blacksmithing. A few new faces I hadn't had occasion to cross paths with yet in the city, though all seemed just as wonderful company as those I knew. Perhaps events like this breed a bit of camaraderie? Who knows. Overall, it was another exciting, well-run event that I am glad I attended.
Written By Ida
Sept. 15, 2016, 2:42 p.m.(8/2/1004 AR)
A search for a new Guildmaster is being conducted. My name was suggested, which truly honored me beyond what words could describe. I mentioned as much to Prince Edain, in a laugh-with-me sort of way, but he thought I might do well at it. It is rare that I ever find myself disagreeing with His Grace, but I had to. Though he did share a bit of wisdom his sister had offered him, which I will hold close to heart and mind.
I have a marked distaste for politics. It's a bit like forging armor; I'll do it if I have to, but I don't enjoy it. The Crafter's Guild deserves someone who will have a passion to lead it through politics and to its future. I don't think I am that person. With that, though, was a bit of nagging guilt, considering the lack of interest from the others. Is it a duty I should take up, despite feeling ill-fit for such a thing? Thankfully, that became moot as my dear friend and fellow smith, Mistress Joscelin, has an interest. I think she'd make a wonderful and impassioned Guildmaster.
I have a marked distaste for politics. It's a bit like forging armor; I'll do it if I have to, but I don't enjoy it. The Crafter's Guild deserves someone who will have a passion to lead it through politics and to its future. I don't think I am that person. With that, though, was a bit of nagging guilt, considering the lack of interest from the others. Is it a duty I should take up, despite feeling ill-fit for such a thing? Thankfully, that became moot as my dear friend and fellow smith, Mistress Joscelin, has an interest. I think she'd make a wonderful and impassioned Guildmaster.
Written By Ida
Sept. 14, 2016, 5:14 p.m.(7/27/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Esera
I am not nervous around too many, if perhaps mostly because I tend to not be around people of great status terribly often. When I am, they are asking me for forge something or make me comfortable. Perhaps the Grand Duchess title, or the fact that her elegance is like a physical presence at the events I've been to that she attended, made me somewhat nervous about Her Grace, Grand Duchess Esera Velenosa. Despite that, I sent word offering to craft a pair of hairpins for her when she advertised asking for a hair ornament to match a fireweave outfit. She has been an exceptionally gracious benefactor of the artisans, so sent word offering my skills. I expected a messenger and, instead, received her as a visitor to the shop. I talked too much, which is often the case, but she was every bit as gracious in person. And? I'm pretty sure she liked the hairpins. Hopefully she'll have no need for them beyond keeping her hair up.
Written By Ida
Sept. 14, 2016, 10:51 a.m.(7/26/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Lou
To say that Princess Lou is unprincessly would make the statement that princesses are supposed to be a particular sort of way. I imagine some people think that, but I figure princess is more a title than something that dictates who someone is. A rather roundabout way of saying that Princess Lou seems one of those people who uses her talents and follows her passions, regardless of what name she is attached to. I enjoyed forging a bow for her, which I truly hope serves her well, as well as just meeting and speaking with her.. I also have to admit having some favor toward people who want something to use rather than display.
Written By Ida
Sept. 14, 2016, 10:37 a.m.(7/26/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Viktarkim
Viktarkim, a tribesman scout and Shav...or former Shav? I'm not sure how one might define him. How I define him, though, is someone in the service of Princess Lou and Lady Dawn, so surely worthy of my own trust. He was sent to me to order some items by them and has a true eye for design - which is maybe unexpected? I have no idea. It seemed beyond his comprehension that someone who makes weapons can't use them, and who fights, does so for sport. I mean, I guess there's a bit of irony there which I hadn't considered before then. It reminded me that when he fights, it's likely to kill. A little dose of the reality of who he was, or can be. Maybe it wasn't beyond his comprehension as much as he thought me odd for it all? Hard to tell, I guess. It was certainly one of my more interesting meetings, that's for sure.
Written By Ida
Sept. 6, 2016, 9:13 a.m.(7/2/1004 AR)
Had I been drinking, I would wave this off as my mind making more of things due to alcohol. Alas, I had not been drinking, though it seems I've a fine talent for inebriating those around me. Perhaps I should not share my shop whiskey as often as I do, but...well. I will reflect on that another time.
What started as some wonderful visits and conversations with dear friends, old and new, in the shop, ended with some drunkenness - one my fault, the other? I've no idea - a duck, and my own personal crisis regarding having surely offended the gods in some way.
What started as some wonderful visits and conversations with dear friends, old and new, in the shop, ended with some drunkenness - one my fault, the other? I've no idea - a duck, and my own personal crisis regarding having surely offended the gods in some way.
Written By Ida
Sept. 6, 2016, 8:51 a.m.(7/2/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Laric
Prince Inquisitor Laric Grayson, who I had fashioned a rapier for, visited the shop recently. He was in poor shape, still nursing some injuries sustained in the melee. If I were a bolder woman, I would have scolded him to no end. My history with Grayson Inquisitors has not always been the best, but I found our first meeting to be markedly different than my first with Prince Gareth. Again, I find myself wondering if I am naive and believe everyone is honorable and true, and yet again hope I'm not a fool for it. He seems genuine, intent on doing his duties for House Grayson and the Inquisition as well as grateful for my skills fashioning his blade. I, in turn, am grateful for the fine apple brandy he delivered along with his kind words.
Written By Ida
Sept. 5, 2016, 1:53 p.m.(6/28/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Anastasio
It happens to us all, at one time or another; getting injured during our trade. Usually I can bandage myself well enough to continue on with my work, but sometimes I get a burn in one of those places that needs more than my meager skills can aide. I had heard word of a healer offering his services and such, so sent word. Luckily, Master Anastasio happened to be near the markets and able to come attend the annoying burn that kept me from working further. He comes from the Oathlands, his accent still there even after a couple of years here in Arx. There's a story there, I suspect, though must admit his claim of a donkey that wouldn't stop was definitely amusing. He left my some salves and it's my hope not to have to call him to work again, but good to know if I did, he's quite good at his trade.
And? He barely flinched when Mistress Joscelin came in to steal my hammer and, just as abruptly, left. Points for that, certainly.
And? He barely flinched when Mistress Joscelin came in to steal my hammer and, just as abruptly, left. Points for that, certainly.
Written By Ida
Sept. 4, 2016, 10:56 p.m.(6/26/1004 AR)
I know, it's an odd request, but please humor me. There are not quite enough people that make me laugh as Mistress Joscelin does, and I need this recorded so that I can look back and amuse myself with it. Yes...just like it is here on the note she sent. Thank you so kindly.
(Apparently copied from some other parchment):
IF Y0U EvAR w@Ant To S33 YoUR H@MM3R AGAIn- (and there's a crude hammer sketch with this ransom note.)
(Apparently copied from some other parchment):
IF Y0U EvAR w@Ant To S33 YoUR H@MM3R AGAIn- (and there's a crude hammer sketch with this ransom note.)
Written By Ida
Sept. 3, 2016, 10:03 p.m.(6/23/1004 AR)
How do you describe the indescribable? Every time I think I have seen something beyond splendid here in Arx, I see something to top the last. Granted, I do not attend many events, as that just isn't my thing, but the fights? Who would miss such a thing? Especially when I was so graciously, never mind generously, honored with the task of forging the blades that would go to the winners?
Mistress Joscelin and I went together and were quickly surrounded by more cheering observers than I may ever have seen. Mistress Acacia was near, who I am forever glad to see at these things. I swear she's as fluid as water and just as refreshing to everyone around her. Master Audric caused me some laughter and it was lovely sharing the benches with Princess Reese Grayson. I did not speak much directly with her highness, though she felt like part of our little merry group while I was there, truly.
The fighting impressed me beyond measure. His Grace, Prince Edain, fought so well and honorably, as always. It makes me so proud. Everyone, truly, had something to be proud of out on that field and I enjoyed it all very much. Sadly, I lost the bet I had placed and owe Mistress Acacia a high quality weapon of her choice, for which I can't even be upset over! The evening, while I slipped out a bit earlier than I had wanted to, was another one of those memories I will hold for a long time.
Mistress Joscelin and I went together and were quickly surrounded by more cheering observers than I may ever have seen. Mistress Acacia was near, who I am forever glad to see at these things. I swear she's as fluid as water and just as refreshing to everyone around her. Master Audric caused me some laughter and it was lovely sharing the benches with Princess Reese Grayson. I did not speak much directly with her highness, though she felt like part of our little merry group while I was there, truly.
The fighting impressed me beyond measure. His Grace, Prince Edain, fought so well and honorably, as always. It makes me so proud. Everyone, truly, had something to be proud of out on that field and I enjoyed it all very much. Sadly, I lost the bet I had placed and owe Mistress Acacia a high quality weapon of her choice, for which I can't even be upset over! The evening, while I slipped out a bit earlier than I had wanted to, was another one of those memories I will hold for a long time.
Written By Ida
Sept. 1, 2016, 3:09 p.m.(6/16/1004 AR)
Made a few weapons that I am rather proud of recently, though hope that does not come across as patting myself on the back. Truly, all three were designed by those who requested them. I just put their ideas into the form of steel.
The first was a warhammer Lady Dawn asked for as a gift she would be giving to Master Hammar. Having done his armor, I had what he seemed to favor in regard to style. The fact that I am well aware of his physical presence, I knew just about the right size to make it. Hopefully it is weighted well. In any case, both Lady Dawn and Master Hammar seemed pleased, which thrilled me to no end. The design on the hammer head is one I was really pleased with, though take no credit for.
After that, I received word from Prince Laric Grayson for a rapier in the colors of the Inquisition. He sent me a flower, though noted he'd heard I didn't like such frivolities. I actually like that sort of frivolity a good deal and wonder why being a strong woman leads people to think otherwise? Though I digress. He had some very specific ideas and requests, which I believe I managed to deliver to his satisfaction.
Lastly, one of the most interesting items I have had occasion to craft is a one-handed waraxe for Lady Brianna. I have to admit, I had a slip of the hammer at one point and it ended up making an edge that I really liked, so what was almost an error became a feature. Again, I was pretty pleased with the design when it was done and so seemed Lady Brianna, which is always most important.
Good week, with a set of hairpins as well as a metting yet to go.
The first was a warhammer Lady Dawn asked for as a gift she would be giving to Master Hammar. Having done his armor, I had what he seemed to favor in regard to style. The fact that I am well aware of his physical presence, I knew just about the right size to make it. Hopefully it is weighted well. In any case, both Lady Dawn and Master Hammar seemed pleased, which thrilled me to no end. The design on the hammer head is one I was really pleased with, though take no credit for.
After that, I received word from Prince Laric Grayson for a rapier in the colors of the Inquisition. He sent me a flower, though noted he'd heard I didn't like such frivolities. I actually like that sort of frivolity a good deal and wonder why being a strong woman leads people to think otherwise? Though I digress. He had some very specific ideas and requests, which I believe I managed to deliver to his satisfaction.
Lastly, one of the most interesting items I have had occasion to craft is a one-handed waraxe for Lady Brianna. I have to admit, I had a slip of the hammer at one point and it ended up making an edge that I really liked, so what was almost an error became a feature. Again, I was pretty pleased with the design when it was done and so seemed Lady Brianna, which is always most important.
Good week, with a set of hairpins as well as a metting yet to go.
Written By Ida
Aug. 29, 2016, 12:06 p.m.(6/7/1004 AR)
I am reminded to write about how I suppose I started down the path of pugilism. I hadn't really though on it much, if at all, until Mistress Acacia asked me about it. Funny how things like that are not so much forgotten, but put to the side of the mind somewhere until someone calls it forth, out of the blue. I am no knight and never will be. I am, however, Valardin. Due to my trade and, I suppose, my natural size (maybe one lead to the other? Who knows?), I have been strong since my teens. I never could stand people who used their power or strength against those who could not hope to counter such things. I still can not. Whether a Valardin virtue or just my own personal one, I feel that if you going to pick on someone, it better be on someone of your own size or bigger. There's no honor otherwise. And if I catch you doing so? You should be prepared that I may decide to step in. Which, I suppose, is partly how I ended up furthering my skills with my hands as well as the anvil.
Written By Ida
Aug. 29, 2016, 12:04 p.m.(6/7/1004 AR)
It has been far, far too long since I found myself along the edges of a true fighting ring. Once again, Mistress Acacia seems to have the ability to draw people to an event and have each and every one of them leave the gladder for it. Or so it seems to me. Now, I have to admit that some of the tactics used by the brawlers rub against my Valardin sensibilities, but I was unsurprised to see them, considering the venue. I suspected I would see as much and even with that, I can't deny I enjoyed the bouts a great deal. It was difficult to watch Master Hammar and Admiral Alrec, two fighters I have personal experience with and who I also consider friends. The fight between the Sword of Velenosa and Marcas was not an easy match to watch, either, simply due to the /how/ of it, I guess I'd have to say. I'm unsure how I will fare against any of them when my time to fight might come. I'm also not sure those crowds will have much appreciation for the sweet science, as we Valardin call it, or my fighting style. I am reminded to follow up with Master Talen about meeting up at the training center. I likely could use a few good work-throughs. Regardless, I wouldn't have missed the event for about anything and can hardly wait to be in a bout myself.
Written By Ida
Aug. 27, 2016, 7:38 p.m.(6/2/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Joscelin
Mistress Joscelin Arterius is a fellow smith - very accomplished jeweler, to be more precise - and a fast friend from my early days here in Arx. She's helped me with some hairpin designs when my eyes just could not wrap around a delicate enough theme. She is maddeningly generous, sending me something of stunning beauty without a word - or taking my damn silver! I'm going to repay her kindness, in all seriousness; she's just as deserving for such things.
Written By Ida
Aug. 27, 2016, 12:13 a.m.(5/27/1004 AR)
Wow. Wow! Market Day - y'know, I'm not much of an event goer. I have never been part of something like this, here or back in the hamlet near Sanctum. It was pretty amazing. The entertainment weaving through the crowds were just beyond what I expected, I guess. The wine fountain, fire-breathers... It felt like such a celebration! There were poignant moments, too. Whisper Denon made the must stunning bust of King Alaric III that, if you were close enough, you could tell touched Lady Dawn when she saw it - probably anyone who was fortunate enough to know him. Mistress Joscelin made a stunning pearl-encrusted haircomb. Oh! And pewter earrings that I was sorely tempted to purchase! Sir Silas, who I noticed had a sword I crafted on his belt, had some very impressive furniture pieces as well. Mistress Acacia, who I always love to see, noted how skilled he is, so I hope to go by his shop soon. I could use a trunk for the shop and the man is, without doubt, exceptionally skilled.
The sword and hairpins I made were purchased by Duke Niccolo. I didn't really expect the pieces to be bought, to be honest, at least not /at/ the event. He had asked some time ago about a rubicund weapon and I was to send word when I mastered the skill, which has yet to happen. Despite that, he bought those pieces and asked about having a sword commissioned, which we're to discuss soon.
Again, I find myself both very impressed and fond of Lady Dawn. She seems to appreciate...everything. I don't know how to explain it. I'm really glad she sent word to have some things crafted and that she invited me along with the other crafters to the event. It was, I suspect, one of those experiences you tell the story of, the rest of your life.
The sword and hairpins I made were purchased by Duke Niccolo. I didn't really expect the pieces to be bought, to be honest, at least not /at/ the event. He had asked some time ago about a rubicund weapon and I was to send word when I mastered the skill, which has yet to happen. Despite that, he bought those pieces and asked about having a sword commissioned, which we're to discuss soon.
Again, I find myself both very impressed and fond of Lady Dawn. She seems to appreciate...everything. I don't know how to explain it. I'm really glad she sent word to have some things crafted and that she invited me along with the other crafters to the event. It was, I suspect, one of those experiences you tell the story of, the rest of your life.
Written By Ida
Aug. 23, 2016, 9:51 a.m.(5/16/1004 AR)
I was really stuck on what to make for Market Day. I must have gone through a hundred pieces of parchment trying to scribble some designs or anything, really. It was during this frustrating process that Master Hammar happened by the shop to purchase a dagger I had up for sale. Chatting with him made me realize that commissions are easier because they have a soul - bear with me here because that probably sounds very crazy.
The piece will belong to someone and if you know just enough about that person, you can put that into the weapon or what have you. A piece of who they are, maybe. Still sounds crazy, but so be it. Sure, people wear their masks or hold things close to their heart, but I work with what I have. ANYhow, leave it to Master Hammar to make something that seemed so hard, so simple. I realized that I had to try to design for someone and ended up with a matching sword and hairpin set that I'm pretty proud of.
Also, I've half a mind to get Master Hammar a pet. It would have to stay at the shop, as it sounds like his landlord isn't an animal lover by any means.
The piece will belong to someone and if you know just enough about that person, you can put that into the weapon or what have you. A piece of who they are, maybe. Still sounds crazy, but so be it. Sure, people wear their masks or hold things close to their heart, but I work with what I have. ANYhow, leave it to Master Hammar to make something that seemed so hard, so simple. I realized that I had to try to design for someone and ended up with a matching sword and hairpin set that I'm pretty proud of.
Also, I've half a mind to get Master Hammar a pet. It would have to stay at the shop, as it sounds like his landlord isn't an animal lover by any means.
Written By Ida
Aug. 21, 2016, 9:18 p.m.(5/12/1004 AR)
I need to come up with something amazing for Market Day, which is an upcoming event Lady Dawn has arranged to showcase the crafters here in Arx. I love making making bows, so I've half of mind to do one of those. The hairpins, however, may appeal to a wider variety of people. I mean, come on. Jewelry that is also a weapons? Blades are more popular, but I don't want to make popular, I want to make unique. In the midst of this, again I find myself wondering if I've been spending too much time at the forge and not enough time in a ring; I am not getting any younger. Still, this event is an important one and I gave my word to Lady Dawn, who I rather admire. What to make, though? I've a crapton of parchments full of scribbles and still no solid idea.
Written By Ida
Aug. 21, 2016, 12:44 p.m.(5/11/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Acacia
Mistress Acacia Culler is someone Prince Edain mentioned my work to and we crossed paths at a couple of events I didn't avoid. She's quite good at engaging people, I've noticed, and can navigate socially far better than I think I ever will. It seems genuine, which maybe makes me naive, but I suppose I don't care if it does or doesn't. Her compliments of my work are beyond kind and she talks my wares up to other people, which has no doubt lead to work I might not otherwise have received. She's purchased from the shop and commissioned several things personally as well. I've really enjoyed speaking with her and we even got to chat for awhile in the shop over whiskey. I'm hoping to get involved in the Fight Club she is starting up and am excited about the whole endeavor - both for myself and her! She is one of the people I am most glad to have met here in Arx.
Written By Ida
Aug. 21, 2016, 12:35 p.m.(5/11/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Dawn
Lady Dawn of House Grayson - that's how her messengers come, so I assume she's not a princess or 'highness.' If she /is/, she's yet to correct me. Though the 'Lady' of the title probably means not. ANYhow, oaths, such a tangent. She sent word about a bow, and I admit that bows may be my favorite to craft. She sent far too much silver, but thankfully also decided to add some armor and a sword. Still, it was far too much silver for even all of that, so I tried to refine the weapons with what I had left. She seems like such a wonderful sort, even through the simple messenger exchanges, and generous to a near fault. Atop that, she left the color scheme for the items to me and I have to say, I think they may be my favorite mix of hues thus far.
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