Written By Leta
March 19, 2017, 8:05 p.m.(2/14/1006 AR)
There was a nice celebration of sorts, for the opening of Princess Valencia's Golden Hart. I'm not much of a gambler, other than to pass the time sometimes, on the road and such. There's other ways to pass the time, and I like those better, but a little bit of dice or cards can be good fun, and I wager I've won more silver than I've lost, over the years.
No gambling, this time, though there was a tournament and I could have bet on that. I think I'd have lost, though, so it's a good thing I didn't bet at all. It was a good show.
I liked the drinks too. I liked them all, to tell the truth, but the wine called Hot Blush was quite fancy, and I did enjoy Mistress Valery's tea quite a bit. Maybe I drank a bit too much of the whole lot, but I was feeling pretty warm on my way home, and that was a comfort..
No gambling, this time, though there was a tournament and I could have bet on that. I think I'd have lost, though, so it's a good thing I didn't bet at all. It was a good show.
I liked the drinks too. I liked them all, to tell the truth, but the wine called Hot Blush was quite fancy, and I did enjoy Mistress Valery's tea quite a bit. Maybe I drank a bit too much of the whole lot, but I was feeling pretty warm on my way home, and that was a comfort..
Written By Jasher
March 19, 2017, 7:46 p.m.(2/14/1006 AR)
Three lost gods now found. Rediscovered? No longer ignored? I'm pretty sure they knew where they were.
Skald has a priest or soon will. If you're the only one, does that make you Archlector by default? From what I hear, Skald would just buy an ale and watch them fight about it.
The Queen of Endings has a priest or one as close as makes no different. A prophet? Having her drop a book on your head seems to be pretty clear.
Question: how do you appoint an Archlector of the Dreamer? Answer: No idea but I'll sleep on it.
Skald has a priest or soon will. If you're the only one, does that make you Archlector by default? From what I hear, Skald would just buy an ale and watch them fight about it.
The Queen of Endings has a priest or one as close as makes no different. A prophet? Having her drop a book on your head seems to be pretty clear.
Question: how do you appoint an Archlector of the Dreamer? Answer: No idea but I'll sleep on it.
Written By Jasher
March 19, 2017, 7:39 p.m.(2/14/1006 AR)
Plans have been made. My ships will be sailing alongside those of Costas Voducce. Our part of the task force is going to be harrying the Betrayer's shipping. Hopefully, there'll be some good loot to be had as none of this comes cheaply. I've yet to meet him but heard some good things for a mainlander.
Written By Valery
March 19, 2017, 7:34 p.m.(2/14/1006 AR)
It seems that my tea won a contest... I didn't even know there was a prize. But I'm glad they liked it.
Today was the celebration at the Stone Grove. It wasn't so bad... But Master Gavin didn't appear...
Today was the celebration at the Stone Grove. It wasn't so bad... But Master Gavin didn't appear...
Written By Edda
March 19, 2017, 7:29 p.m.(2/14/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Tikva
The family of the Twainfort would not be the same without her-- a kind friend as well as a gracious lady, even if she did choose to marry into a tangle of Prodigals like us. They chose each other wisely, even so. The little lord Tiber is a breath of fresh air, same as his mother's smile.
Written By Esoka
March 19, 2017, 7:01 p.m.(2/14/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Thesarin
My life has been bound up with Thesarin's for so long I cannot remember a time when it was not. My tribesman of the Greenwoods. My leader, when the tribe was broken, and I had to find another path. My count, and I his knight, when we became this thing they call prodigal. My duty to him and his gives my life form and function, even when all else seems dark. He shall have my sword and my blood so long as I live.
Written By Hadrian
March 19, 2017, 6:21 p.m.(2/14/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Costas
He watches over my sister on the battlefield and beyond, for which I am thankful. He is a man with a particular set of skills of which I believe any household could be well served in possessing. We are very fortunate to have him among us and Master Costas, hopefully, will grow as a result of his time sworn to House Malvici. So may it be until he is old, grizzled, and grey. Or meets an appropriately story-worthy demise. Whichever may come first. Oh, if they happened at the same time? Old, grey, grizzled... he may already be plenty grizzled though, plus a story-worthy ending? That would be a truly wonderful story for the ages, I suspect!
Overall our latest meeting was a good encounter and granted me valuable insight into the way the man thinks. Where he stands on certain social topics as well. It was interesting to say the least and I look forward to future shared discussions. He's also offered himself as a courier of sorts to deliver some matters of interest should I need such. A more personal touch than the average courier when such is needed. He truly is a man of varied skills and interests, which I can respect.
Overall our latest meeting was a good encounter and granted me valuable insight into the way the man thinks. Where he stands on certain social topics as well. It was interesting to say the least and I look forward to future shared discussions. He's also offered himself as a courier of sorts to deliver some matters of interest should I need such. A more personal touch than the average courier when such is needed. He truly is a man of varied skills and interests, which I can respect.
Written By Edain
March 19, 2017, 5:19 p.m.(2/14/1006 AR)
Have you ever experienced actual silence? I am not talking about quiet. I am talking of the utter absence of any sound at all. It his horrifying. When I was still a squire and learning to tilt, a training exercise went very wrong and a jousting lance struck my helm and just the right angle to break the cheap training helm, and sent me falling backwards off the horse and striking my head against a post on the way down. The head wound called blood to pool in my ears until all sound was gone. Not a distracting ringing, not muffling of sound that made them sound weak and far away.
It was no sound at all. And in the absent of any sound, our minds almost immediately descend into panic. The sounds that surround us even the most subtle ones give us comfort, give the world a sense of permanency that even sight cannot give you. In time I mended and my hearing slowly came back, but for those two days of complete and utter silence, I would lash out violently unless a loved one was within arms reach. I was blessed that my sister, Princess Tabitha was willing to clear her schedule for a few days to dote on me.
Currently loping towards Arx with slow menace is an enemy that follows something called Silence, with a capital S. Many have written there thoughts on what this Silence is. I would be lying if I said I understood what it is. But if this is a thing that exists only in the truest forms of inescapable silence, then I can only imagine the madness it has given itself too. Maybe it is just wants to drag all the world into it's madness so it no longer has to suffer it alone. Maybe it is more like beast gone rabid, than a calculating fiend that we can hope to understand the motives of.
Either way it sounds like it is time for this feral animal to show us it's throat so we can put it out of it's misery, and let our voices be what shatters the silence once and for all.
It was no sound at all. And in the absent of any sound, our minds almost immediately descend into panic. The sounds that surround us even the most subtle ones give us comfort, give the world a sense of permanency that even sight cannot give you. In time I mended and my hearing slowly came back, but for those two days of complete and utter silence, I would lash out violently unless a loved one was within arms reach. I was blessed that my sister, Princess Tabitha was willing to clear her schedule for a few days to dote on me.
Currently loping towards Arx with slow menace is an enemy that follows something called Silence, with a capital S. Many have written there thoughts on what this Silence is. I would be lying if I said I understood what it is. But if this is a thing that exists only in the truest forms of inescapable silence, then I can only imagine the madness it has given itself too. Maybe it is just wants to drag all the world into it's madness so it no longer has to suffer it alone. Maybe it is more like beast gone rabid, than a calculating fiend that we can hope to understand the motives of.
Either way it sounds like it is time for this feral animal to show us it's throat so we can put it out of it's misery, and let our voices be what shatters the silence once and for all.
Written By Niccolo
March 19, 2017, 5:17 p.m.(2/14/1006 AR)
I'm a very private man.
I don't like to narrate my life in white journals. I have moments, moments I decide to share with others. Moments that usually are dedicated to those I've lost. Not out of a desire to spill my life for others to read, but because I feel those I write about in those moments deserve to be remembered. They deserve to be preserved in the memory of others.
Those that care for my thoughts, know to come to me for them. And most of the time, I'll share them freely. Other times, trust must be earned for me to let them see what lies inside. Some have earned that trust, others not so much.
What is a truth that cannot be denied, however, is that the enemy we'll be soon facing, the one marching to our gates, the one that wants to kill us all, that wants to end things as they are, that wants to bring oblivion cares very little for how much I feel or trust others. It cares little for my own preferences on what I like to share or not. It is an enemy to all of us, regardless how we feel about each other. It is an enemy, that we must face together.
Those riding out to meet this enemy, regardless of your feelings for me, I salute you and I will pray to the gods to bring you victory and bring you back home safe. To my direct family that is putting itself at risk in order to fight this enemy, know that I think of you constantly. If I can't be at your side physically, know that I'm there in spirit.
Those staying in the city, preparing to help defend it if things get so dire, know that I cherish you. And we will fight together, and triumph together. Our enemy thinks that our differences with each other are a weakness, that we're unable to come together when is needed. Our enemy is about to discover, how wrong they truly are.
I don't like to narrate my life in white journals. I have moments, moments I decide to share with others. Moments that usually are dedicated to those I've lost. Not out of a desire to spill my life for others to read, but because I feel those I write about in those moments deserve to be remembered. They deserve to be preserved in the memory of others.
Those that care for my thoughts, know to come to me for them. And most of the time, I'll share them freely. Other times, trust must be earned for me to let them see what lies inside. Some have earned that trust, others not so much.
What is a truth that cannot be denied, however, is that the enemy we'll be soon facing, the one marching to our gates, the one that wants to kill us all, that wants to end things as they are, that wants to bring oblivion cares very little for how much I feel or trust others. It cares little for my own preferences on what I like to share or not. It is an enemy to all of us, regardless how we feel about each other. It is an enemy, that we must face together.
Those riding out to meet this enemy, regardless of your feelings for me, I salute you and I will pray to the gods to bring you victory and bring you back home safe. To my direct family that is putting itself at risk in order to fight this enemy, know that I think of you constantly. If I can't be at your side physically, know that I'm there in spirit.
Those staying in the city, preparing to help defend it if things get so dire, know that I cherish you. And we will fight together, and triumph together. Our enemy thinks that our differences with each other are a weakness, that we're unable to come together when is needed. Our enemy is about to discover, how wrong they truly are.
Written By Acacia
March 19, 2017, 5:16 p.m.(2/14/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Magpie
There were rumors of two oft-forgotten ships snuggling together in the harbor when they thought no one was looking. It was Birdie who deemed it fit to inform me of such, given that ship-courtship is such a terribly important thing. Especially when the parents might be very particular about who's spending time aboard, what kind of mischief they might be getting into and whether they're out far too late for their own good. We decided it best if we keep in close contact, if only for the sake of the others concerned. I haven't regretted it yet. He has terrible, hilarious stories to share -- often specifically not about him. And maybe an amusing penchant for naming things. As for his abilities with his daggers. Well. It is what it is. At least the busy Hana will always have continued business!
Written By Acacia
March 19, 2017, 4:54 p.m.(2/14/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Moira
It's easy to forget that Moira's younger than me sometimes. She carries herself well, always fusing that perfect mix of eloquent composure with just enough gutter to keep it easy to relate to. We don't run into each other that often, but she doesn't rag on my terrible attempts at poetry (or my ability to empty a room with it), is understanding when I might accidentally decorate a wall with a new hole or three, and always keeps my favorite whiskeys in stock. That Grayhope is a good one.
Written By Edain
March 19, 2017, 4:54 p.m.(2/14/1006 AR)
So I fought in the Golden Hart's first championship, and it was an experience that I think I learned something from. My first match was against Lord Commander Silas. A man I had never bested in personal combat. It was tough battle (and I have no dillusions, Lord Commander Silas was fighting with a little more pagentry than he usually does. Had he been more focused I'd not have won). But still it was a victory I was very proud of.
And then the very next match, Sir Mathias beats me savagely, and I think my blade did not hit him but once. I tried to put on a brave face, but if I am very honest with myself, I was embarrassed and looked like an amateur. Pride coming before the fall, I experienced great hubris. A reminder that you must always have your guard up, and be ready for any challenge.
And then the very next match, Sir Mathias beats me savagely, and I think my blade did not hit him but once. I tried to put on a brave face, but if I am very honest with myself, I was embarrassed and looked like an amateur. Pride coming before the fall, I experienced great hubris. A reminder that you must always have your guard up, and be ready for any challenge.
Written By Rymarr
March 19, 2017, 4:30 p.m.(2/14/1006 AR)
Many changes of late with the king awakened. It has been both refreshing but also stressful; understandably so. I can say that those who watch over Alaric have done an admirable job, fulfilling their duties and being unwavering in their vigil. Something tells me that more changes lay over the horizon. Only time will tell and I will face them as I ever do. At least until I'm asked no longer to do so.
Gardening does sound relaxing. Or perhaps an orchard or vineyard to occupy my time, some day.
Gardening does sound relaxing. Or perhaps an orchard or vineyard to occupy my time, some day.
Written By Valencia
March 19, 2017, 4:23 p.m.(2/14/1006 AR)
We finally opened the Golden Hart. What an amazing night! So many beautiful faces and such generosity and kindness.
I will wholeheartedly admit that I was apprehensive despite my excitement and the continued reassurance that the Hart would be a success, but I certainly could not imagine how successful it would be.
The tournament was so very exciting. The best matches I have seen in some time. Lead by my most beloved cousin Luca, four bold and brilliant fighter took to the sands to open the Hart’s arena in style -- the renowned Mistress Zhayla, Lord Commander Sir Silas Mercier; Prince Edain Valardin of the Oathlands; and the remarkable and very talented Missere Mathias.
My heart still reels with such joy to see such talent and heart. All who entered the ring fought beautifully, but it was Mathias who bravely won the day and has been named the first of the Hart’s champions. I cannot wait to see who will earn their place next to him in the coming days.
The warm winter drink contest in the Main Hall was also a delight and such a huge success thanks to my sweetest cousin Cicero and a panel of esteemed judges. How they were able to pick just one is a mystery to me, but I am so grateful they were up to the task.
All the entries were excellent, however it was Mistress Valery’s spicy cinnamon and orange tea that won the 500 silver purse, followed by the delicious Marquessa Samantha Deepwood’s mulled caramel apple cider and Lady Juliet Fidante’s Hot Blush, a pale pink rose wine with spices and hints of carbonation. It is by greatest pleasure that Mistress Valery’s tea will be served as the Hart’s signature drink for the winter season.
And then there were games and drinking and dance. Gods, it was a beautiful night and a perfect way to open the Hart.
My only sadness is that there were so many faces missing. Those I care for but could not be with us. Some are gone, some I pray will return. It is a bittersweet thing. But I am eternally grateful for those who will return. I cannot wait to see them and pray that they are safe.
I am so very grateful to everyone who helped to make this possible. I cannot thank them enough.
To my dearest and most beloved Lord Asger, Cicero, Lord Dante, Mistress Joslyn, Lady Juliet, Kieran, Luca, Prince Remi and so many others who have been so kind to me along the way, I thank you. Your love, kindness and generous support humbles me. My heart is yours as always. I wish there was a way I could show adequate appreciation. I am so glad you are on this journey with me. With you, I am so much stronger and better person.
Thank you so very much to the Silver Consortium and much gratitude to Haati Wavehowler for donating four sets of outstanding armor and all a full sets of weapons so that all who step upon the sands of the Arena have fair opportunity to test their skills and hearts in the Ring of Valor. Your generosity and your dedication and skills inspire me.
And, it goes without saying how much I appreciate and adore those who have quietly shown their support and do not wish to be recognized. How I earned your kindness I do not know, but I am grateful or it and so very happy you are in my life.
The Hart is now open and I hope its halls, garden and arena are filled with people.
And now the real work begins.
With life, luck and love...
~~~~~<~<@
I will wholeheartedly admit that I was apprehensive despite my excitement and the continued reassurance that the Hart would be a success, but I certainly could not imagine how successful it would be.
The tournament was so very exciting. The best matches I have seen in some time. Lead by my most beloved cousin Luca, four bold and brilliant fighter took to the sands to open the Hart’s arena in style -- the renowned Mistress Zhayla, Lord Commander Sir Silas Mercier; Prince Edain Valardin of the Oathlands; and the remarkable and very talented Missere Mathias.
My heart still reels with such joy to see such talent and heart. All who entered the ring fought beautifully, but it was Mathias who bravely won the day and has been named the first of the Hart’s champions. I cannot wait to see who will earn their place next to him in the coming days.
The warm winter drink contest in the Main Hall was also a delight and such a huge success thanks to my sweetest cousin Cicero and a panel of esteemed judges. How they were able to pick just one is a mystery to me, but I am so grateful they were up to the task.
All the entries were excellent, however it was Mistress Valery’s spicy cinnamon and orange tea that won the 500 silver purse, followed by the delicious Marquessa Samantha Deepwood’s mulled caramel apple cider and Lady Juliet Fidante’s Hot Blush, a pale pink rose wine with spices and hints of carbonation. It is by greatest pleasure that Mistress Valery’s tea will be served as the Hart’s signature drink for the winter season.
And then there were games and drinking and dance. Gods, it was a beautiful night and a perfect way to open the Hart.
My only sadness is that there were so many faces missing. Those I care for but could not be with us. Some are gone, some I pray will return. It is a bittersweet thing. But I am eternally grateful for those who will return. I cannot wait to see them and pray that they are safe.
I am so very grateful to everyone who helped to make this possible. I cannot thank them enough.
To my dearest and most beloved Lord Asger, Cicero, Lord Dante, Mistress Joslyn, Lady Juliet, Kieran, Luca, Prince Remi and so many others who have been so kind to me along the way, I thank you. Your love, kindness and generous support humbles me. My heart is yours as always. I wish there was a way I could show adequate appreciation. I am so glad you are on this journey with me. With you, I am so much stronger and better person.
Thank you so very much to the Silver Consortium and much gratitude to Haati Wavehowler for donating four sets of outstanding armor and all a full sets of weapons so that all who step upon the sands of the Arena have fair opportunity to test their skills and hearts in the Ring of Valor. Your generosity and your dedication and skills inspire me.
And, it goes without saying how much I appreciate and adore those who have quietly shown their support and do not wish to be recognized. How I earned your kindness I do not know, but I am grateful or it and so very happy you are in my life.
The Hart is now open and I hope its halls, garden and arena are filled with people.
And now the real work begins.
With life, luck and love...
~~~~~<~<@
Written By Caelis
March 19, 2017, 4:22 p.m.(2/14/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Ford
I met Ford first on a mission to investigate a missing ship. Since then I have learned his story and he mine. He works himself too hard and has odd opinions on armor, but he's a fine friend. Finding myself on the eve of a battle again, it's a pity I don't have his blade at my side. Perhaps the next mission.
Written By Aleksei
March 19, 2017, 4:19 p.m.(2/14/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Holden
If you ever want to see Holden Morgan cry, just give him a puppy.
Written By Zhayla
March 19, 2017, 4:10 p.m.(2/14/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Tristan
The first time I met Tristan, he insulted my cat. (There's nothing wrong with Driftwood!!) But he helped me with her when I didn't know how to take care of anything, and with Dumpling, too. I think he probably likes animals better than the rest of us, but I've never doubted his heart. A good man.
Written By Zhayla
March 19, 2017, 4:08 p.m.(2/14/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Roland
I was honored -- well, flattered is probably more accurate, I guess; honored sounds better, though -- when Roland asked if I could come with him on his quest. I was afraid he'd change his mind, I was so eager. It sounds like tale, and he plays the part of a perfect hero. I'm not sure I could have been as focused as he was, but he never wavered. I trust him absolutely to defend.
Written By Edda
March 19, 2017, 4:07 p.m.(2/14/1006 AR)
We persist in life, and in death, and until the time we come back again, just to start over. Persisting. It's a perfect sort of word, isn't it?
Our spirit persists one world to the next.
Though I think some of us prefer the forms we have now. Enough to fight for them.
Our spirit persists one world to the next.
Though I think some of us prefer the forms we have now. Enough to fight for them.
Written By Zhayla
March 19, 2017, 4 p.m.(2/14/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Holden
When we were sailing to the island, about midway through, Ferrando suddenly seemed to find Holden hilariously funny, and I had no idea why. I didn't get it. It took a long, long time for me to figure out that Holden IS ALEKSEI'S BROTHER. They couldn't be more different at first meeting, but I'd trust him just as much in a fight.
He told some really good stories about Aleksei, too. I'm waiting until the next dinner at the Murder and for Aleksei to take a nice big drink of something so I can ask him about them.
He told some really good stories about Aleksei, too. I'm waiting until the next dinner at the Murder and for Aleksei to take a nice big drink of something so I can ask him about them.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.