Written By Edward
May 6, 2017, 2:01 p.m.(5/28/1006 AR)
Tomorrow the sun will shine on an Arx that either has new leadership or far fewer people than it should. The walls are lined with those who look forward if only to protect those that are behind them. I do not know if Brand believes the siege of the city has been a success. The attack might indicate he believes so. It does not change that the landscape of faces in Arx will change by the end of it all.
Long live the fighters.
Long live the fighters.
Written By Edward
May 6, 2017, 1:53 p.m.(5/28/1006 AR)
I have a sword. I have a sword. I have a sword hey hey hey hey.
Written By Aureth
May 6, 2017, 12:43 p.m.(5/28/1006 AR)
The dead will take up arms with you and stand against the foe on this day. Take heart that the gods are with us. Take heart that Death's gifts are bestowed upon Her City and that we will stand against all that come to break the Wheel.
Defend the City and the Compact.
Defend the Queen and the Pantheon.
Defend life itself.
Oh and please don't fuck with the zombies, they're sensitive.
Defend the City and the Compact.
Defend the Queen and the Pantheon.
Defend life itself.
Oh and please don't fuck with the zombies, they're sensitive.
Written By Merek
May 6, 2017, 12:41 p.m.(5/28/1006 AR)
It is not long before the battle breaks. I shall meditate. I've received a few letters, I've sent a few. I don't have much to say at the moment. What can one say? All I can say is that on that field, we will fight for every soul. Not just on Arvum, but in the whole of the world. Brand seeks to make all become undone. We are at the center. We will make him pay, and we will win. Victory will be achieved. I do not know what the cost will be, but... The world shall remain intact. The Dream shall continue. I don't know how many more entries I can make here. So I'll leave this, within the White Journals, where all can read. Continue dreaming.
Written By Rymarr
May 6, 2017, 12:19 p.m.(5/28/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Joscelin
Guildmaster of the Crafter's Guild and a jeweler. Recently I conducted business with her that resulted in what I've personally deemed a work of art. The only assumption that I can make regarding her skill is a combination of experience brought on by time and the blessing of Jayus. I'm not often one for fanciful things, but I regularly find myself staring at this ring. One could likely accuse it of being precious to me.
The Guildmaster has proven herself to be an exceptionally skilled worker of fine things and, more importantly to someone such as myself, easy to conduct business with. I will certainly know where to go in the future if I've the inclination to buy a gift for the special someone in my life.
The Guildmaster has proven herself to be an exceptionally skilled worker of fine things and, more importantly to someone such as myself, easy to conduct business with. I will certainly know where to go in the future if I've the inclination to buy a gift for the special someone in my life.
Written By Aislin
May 6, 2017, 11:49 a.m.(5/28/1006 AR)
I am not an eloquent writer. I can be /verbose/, gods know, and I like to think thorough as well. But I'm not one of those who writes an elegant entry that inspires with just the perfect words -- much less one that will be referred to centuries from now. But a fight like the one we face deserves at least an effort.
Because while I have every faith that we -- Arx, the Compact, Arvum -- will survive this cataclysm, just as we've survived others... there will be lives spent to buy that survival. And any one of us -- myself included -- could fall, defending the walls.
I've long thought we stand in a catacomb of ignorance; we're surrounded by ornate carvings on the walls, the crumbled and shattered remains of some grand mosaic of the world at our feet, and we can see none of it in the darkness. A torch shows us only a little at a time -- rarely enough to truly understand what we're glimpsing. A carving of a wolf... is that a sign of a threat? The sigil of a god? Some grand and forgotten spirit of the wilds? What does it mean about how the pieces of the mosaic fit together? We stumble around blind in the dark, squinting and hoping to catch a glimpse of what's around us.
For years, I've wanted to piece that mosaic together for reasons that I told myself were Vellichorian -- to restore knowledge -- but which, if I were wholly honest, were also selfish: I am an innately curious individual, and I wanted to /know/. To understand the forgotten bits of history I kept stumbling across, or glimpse even a part of what that mosaic -- what our world -- looks like when properly put together. And so I tried to make myself a torch -- a light, so I could glimpse that catacomb around me.
But the truth is, that mosaic isn't merely an artwork; it is a guidebook. As we piece it back together, hidden in its imagery, we find the forgotten lore we need to fight the things out there that threaten us. Things like Brand and his army. And the greater threats still looming. Somewhere along the way, my road became less about satisfying my own curiosity, and more about restoring those tools to us.
One torch is hardly enough to help us put this back together. And there are so many ways to light a torch. Curiosity to learn of our past, or to see what's over that next hill -- to bring back the missing pieces. A burning desire to defend others, to be the shining sword that cuts a path into the darkness. To do the /impossible/, and show people that it's possible after all.
Every time a scholar uncovers some forgotten ritual to fight the abyss, that gives us hope and lights another torch. Every time a researcher finds a new way to see Bringers weakened, that gives a bit more hope. Every time an explorer returns with some forgotten relic, or tales of some old battle against these sort of things which we /survived/, that gives a bit more hope. And every time a warrior strikes a dramatic blow -- shows that even now, people can aspire to the examples left to us in the Hall of Heroes -- that lights a torch of hope as well.
The past two years have been tumultuous ones, both on a personal level and an /existential/ one: we've met /elves/, three missing gods have been restored to the pantheon, and we've learned more about the strengths and weaknesses of abyssal creatures than we would have thought possible. Fighting darkly supernatural things is becoming commonplace. And somewhere in all of that, I've made -- and lost -- friends who influenced me, shaped me, more than I wanted to admit. Those who I'll miss fiercely -- Vincere, Pietro, Dawn -- and those who I'm glad to have at my side now. And gods know I never expected anything about my relationship with Niamh, or how fiercely I feel for her.
And in that time, through the friends we've made -- and the examples of the friends we've lost to the fight -- and the things we've found along that way... many more torches have been lit. And I hope that for everyone who falls, the embers of whatever torch they might have been carried will be used to light two more. That slowly, more and more of the catacomb around us will be revealed, and more of the mosaic put together.
And so when the /next/ threat comes, the Compact will be that much more prepared to face it on behalf of all Arvum.
I take comfort in that.
Because while I have every faith that we -- Arx, the Compact, Arvum -- will survive this cataclysm, just as we've survived others... there will be lives spent to buy that survival. And any one of us -- myself included -- could fall, defending the walls.
I've long thought we stand in a catacomb of ignorance; we're surrounded by ornate carvings on the walls, the crumbled and shattered remains of some grand mosaic of the world at our feet, and we can see none of it in the darkness. A torch shows us only a little at a time -- rarely enough to truly understand what we're glimpsing. A carving of a wolf... is that a sign of a threat? The sigil of a god? Some grand and forgotten spirit of the wilds? What does it mean about how the pieces of the mosaic fit together? We stumble around blind in the dark, squinting and hoping to catch a glimpse of what's around us.
For years, I've wanted to piece that mosaic together for reasons that I told myself were Vellichorian -- to restore knowledge -- but which, if I were wholly honest, were also selfish: I am an innately curious individual, and I wanted to /know/. To understand the forgotten bits of history I kept stumbling across, or glimpse even a part of what that mosaic -- what our world -- looks like when properly put together. And so I tried to make myself a torch -- a light, so I could glimpse that catacomb around me.
But the truth is, that mosaic isn't merely an artwork; it is a guidebook. As we piece it back together, hidden in its imagery, we find the forgotten lore we need to fight the things out there that threaten us. Things like Brand and his army. And the greater threats still looming. Somewhere along the way, my road became less about satisfying my own curiosity, and more about restoring those tools to us.
One torch is hardly enough to help us put this back together. And there are so many ways to light a torch. Curiosity to learn of our past, or to see what's over that next hill -- to bring back the missing pieces. A burning desire to defend others, to be the shining sword that cuts a path into the darkness. To do the /impossible/, and show people that it's possible after all.
Every time a scholar uncovers some forgotten ritual to fight the abyss, that gives us hope and lights another torch. Every time a researcher finds a new way to see Bringers weakened, that gives a bit more hope. Every time an explorer returns with some forgotten relic, or tales of some old battle against these sort of things which we /survived/, that gives a bit more hope. And every time a warrior strikes a dramatic blow -- shows that even now, people can aspire to the examples left to us in the Hall of Heroes -- that lights a torch of hope as well.
The past two years have been tumultuous ones, both on a personal level and an /existential/ one: we've met /elves/, three missing gods have been restored to the pantheon, and we've learned more about the strengths and weaknesses of abyssal creatures than we would have thought possible. Fighting darkly supernatural things is becoming commonplace. And somewhere in all of that, I've made -- and lost -- friends who influenced me, shaped me, more than I wanted to admit. Those who I'll miss fiercely -- Vincere, Pietro, Dawn -- and those who I'm glad to have at my side now. And gods know I never expected anything about my relationship with Niamh, or how fiercely I feel for her.
And in that time, through the friends we've made -- and the examples of the friends we've lost to the fight -- and the things we've found along that way... many more torches have been lit. And I hope that for everyone who falls, the embers of whatever torch they might have been carried will be used to light two more. That slowly, more and more of the catacomb around us will be revealed, and more of the mosaic put together.
And so when the /next/ threat comes, the Compact will be that much more prepared to face it on behalf of all Arvum.
I take comfort in that.
Written By Leta
May 6, 2017, 11:33 a.m.(5/28/1006 AR)
I hear the enemy's ready, and I've been ready for days myself, though unlike some I don't mind the wait. That means more time for wine and merriment before the big thing. I doubt I'll be doing much of note in the battle that is almost happening. I'm no hero or anything of the sort, and I haven't fancy metal, though I expect the regular kind's good enough for most of the work that needs doing. I've no task with the Valorous Few, or with anyone else.
I've got but one thing to do, and that's to keep a princess from harm. I'm paid well enough for it, though it's not the sort of job one does for silver. And I'm sure there's other princesses that it would be easier to guard. This one's a hero, and that'll make my work harder than it needs to be, but that's just what she's like, and I'm used to it by now. It's been a year, she told me. A whole year to the day yesterday, since she first beat me in the arena and we got to know each other. I don't know if that's a good sign or a bad sign, that it's been a year, just the day before battle. I'll call it a good sign. It's just the first year, and if I've any say in it there will be fifty more at least. So I've got to keep this princess alive or else the world ends, like in the stories. Not everyone's world, and folk would keep on living, but I've got no world without her in it anymore.
I've got but one thing to do, and that's to keep a princess from harm. I'm paid well enough for it, though it's not the sort of job one does for silver. And I'm sure there's other princesses that it would be easier to guard. This one's a hero, and that'll make my work harder than it needs to be, but that's just what she's like, and I'm used to it by now. It's been a year, she told me. A whole year to the day yesterday, since she first beat me in the arena and we got to know each other. I don't know if that's a good sign or a bad sign, that it's been a year, just the day before battle. I'll call it a good sign. It's just the first year, and if I've any say in it there will be fifty more at least. So I've got to keep this princess alive or else the world ends, like in the stories. Not everyone's world, and folk would keep on living, but I've got no world without her in it anymore.
Written By Nash
May 6, 2017, 11:33 a.m.(5/28/1006 AR)
Today I will make a wager. I've never owned much, not as long as I've been alive, but it still seems I have some things to lose, however intangible. Hope, for example. I think today I'm willing the gamble all of it on a simple premise. If the sun rises tomorrow, it will because there are still men and women of courage and conviction. I bet that the sun rises. I bet that there are better men than I.
Written By Armel
May 6, 2017, 10:51 a.m.(5/28/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Lark
Surprisingly calm and rational princess, even if she did take delight in using turns of phrase to embarrass the abyss out of me for parts of the conversation. She is far more practical than many nobles I have met, and honestly, I think she was just grateful I wasn't trying to get into her pants. Skirt. Whatever she was wearing, I honestly don't remember. Point is, I think she will be a fine ally, once the siege is over and things can return to normal.
Written By Juliet
May 6, 2017, 10:48 a.m.(5/28/1006 AR)
Addendum to my last will and testament:
The painting known as "Skin and Roses, or is it", by Lord Percephon Telmar, shall be passed into the hands of Fortunato Grayhope, and may it always bring him joy.
The painting known as "Skin and Roses, or is it", by Lord Percephon Telmar, shall be passed into the hands of Fortunato Grayhope, and may it always bring him joy.
Written By Tikva
May 6, 2017, 10:37 a.m.(5/28/1006 AR)
My arrows are ready. My bow is ready. My heart is ready. I have prayed to the Pantheon, all, and stand in surety. I will guard this wall. If I fall, my child will be safe in the arms of his kin. I know what it is to be left behind, but my child is strong, and his family loves him. I must choose the risk, and so I do.
One last prayer, Gloria. A soldier's prayer, as the day dawns.
But this prayer is not for me.
Let his sword strike true. I need not pray that his heart never waver, for I know it will not. And it comes time for my friend to die in this fight ... let him go at the pinnacle of glory. Let his death be a death for a thousand songs.
I will write them all.
One last prayer, Gloria. A soldier's prayer, as the day dawns.
But this prayer is not for me.
Let his sword strike true. I need not pray that his heart never waver, for I know it will not. And it comes time for my friend to die in this fight ... let him go at the pinnacle of glory. Let his death be a death for a thousand songs.
I will write them all.
Written By Armel
May 6, 2017, 10:17 a.m.(5/28/1006 AR)
**From the desk of Armel Godsworn (real surname unknown), Grandmaster, Knights of Solace**
For a thousand years, the Knights of Solace have stood as guardians of the people, as shields of the faith, and as a byword for honor, duty, and sacrifice. And now, as the enemy finally closes in around us and prepares for the final assault? That has not changed an inch. Our honor will never bend, our duty will never waver, and we will make whatever sacrifice is necessary to defend the people of Arx.
My place is at the Seawatch gate, where I and fifteen hundred of my men will stand, ready to accept the hammerblow of the enemy with raised shields and defiance unto our last breath. Even if every one of the Silver Order should fall, we will consider it a small price to pay to preserve the life of those behind us.
For that is our oath. That as long as one innocent soul is in our charge, no price is too high. With our brothers and sisters of the Compact, we stand. With the proud warriors of every nation, creed, and faith, we stand. Together, we shall raise a shout that will echo throughout the heavens themselves.
Next to that? Brand will be nothing more than a whisper crashing forward to break upon the rocks.
See you on the other side, everyone. Let's bleed this bastard dry.
For a thousand years, the Knights of Solace have stood as guardians of the people, as shields of the faith, and as a byword for honor, duty, and sacrifice. And now, as the enemy finally closes in around us and prepares for the final assault? That has not changed an inch. Our honor will never bend, our duty will never waver, and we will make whatever sacrifice is necessary to defend the people of Arx.
My place is at the Seawatch gate, where I and fifteen hundred of my men will stand, ready to accept the hammerblow of the enemy with raised shields and defiance unto our last breath. Even if every one of the Silver Order should fall, we will consider it a small price to pay to preserve the life of those behind us.
For that is our oath. That as long as one innocent soul is in our charge, no price is too high. With our brothers and sisters of the Compact, we stand. With the proud warriors of every nation, creed, and faith, we stand. Together, we shall raise a shout that will echo throughout the heavens themselves.
Next to that? Brand will be nothing more than a whisper crashing forward to break upon the rocks.
See you on the other side, everyone. Let's bleed this bastard dry.
Written By Juliet
May 6, 2017, 9:58 a.m.(5/28/1006 AR)
This may well be my last journal entry (though perhaps I will visit the confession chamber and have a last black reflection scribed as well).
The towers draw near and the enemy prepares for battle. If I do die, I have broken a myriad of promises. I can only beg the forgiveness of both gods and humans in advance.
But I will make a promise I can keep.
I will do whatever is in my power to stop the end. I will raise my sword in defense of the Compact. I will die if I need to, and live if I can.
The last few months here have been interesting. Growing up, I hoped never to see war again.
Then I was a child. Helpless to do anything but worry and watch the horizon.
Fretting when another corpse-cart was brought back. Flinching from the wounds of the injured as they returned, constantly praying not to see familiar faces among them.
I am no longer a child.
The towers draw near and the enemy prepares for battle. If I do die, I have broken a myriad of promises. I can only beg the forgiveness of both gods and humans in advance.
But I will make a promise I can keep.
I will do whatever is in my power to stop the end. I will raise my sword in defense of the Compact. I will die if I need to, and live if I can.
The last few months here have been interesting. Growing up, I hoped never to see war again.
Then I was a child. Helpless to do anything but worry and watch the horizon.
Fretting when another corpse-cart was brought back. Flinching from the wounds of the injured as they returned, constantly praying not to see familiar faces among them.
I am no longer a child.
Written By Ysbail
May 6, 2017, 6:56 a.m.(5/28/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Asger
A warm welcome when I arrived! The Duke has been doing much to see that I am caught up on the particulars of the siege. I only hope I can repay the favor soon.
Written By Ysbail
May 6, 2017, 6:54 a.m.(5/28/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Kahlana
She seems to be very dedicated and ambitious. I do hope her tenacity will bring her through this siege unscathed.
Written By Ysbail
May 6, 2017, 6:52 a.m.(5/28/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Aodhan
A delightful friend to have for adventures through the city! Always ready with a smile, there are not enough of those right now.
Written By Thena
May 6, 2017, 12:28 a.m.(5/27/1006 AR)
I moved into Aureth's old room at the Murder today. Sort of a silly time to move, I guess, but it didn't take long and I feel more comfortable there. More like a home, if I make it that far.
Anyway, it's the eve of the grand battle, and maybe I'm spending my last night in this world alone but I'm spending it in some fucking /amazing/ sheets. What can I say, my cousin has good taste in linens.
Anyway, it's the eve of the grand battle, and maybe I'm spending my last night in this world alone but I'm spending it in some fucking /amazing/ sheets. What can I say, my cousin has good taste in linens.
Written By Merek
May 6, 2017, 12:14 a.m.(5/27/1006 AR)
The eve of the siege. It seems that in the next morning or two, Brand's forces will be ready. We have to be ready to fight. I'm afraid, I will admit, but we all must do our part. The gods are on our side, while in addition to that, we have many people with the ability to assist. I have a feeling we will win, but it will be costly. I wish all my friends their best. Since being here in Arx, I've loved, I've lived, but didn't find what I sought. If I survive, I'm going to try and work towards finding happiness. Perhaps.
Written By Joscelin
May 6, 2017, midnight(5/27/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Ansel
An upstanding gentleman of the highest accord. Honorable, kind, and fun. I hope to count him as friend.
Written By Joscelin
May 5, 2017, 10:57 p.m.(5/27/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Zakar
When you open your door on the morrow, watch your step. It's slippery.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.