Written By Valencia
Oct. 3, 2021, 2:22 p.m.(4/25/1016 AR)
Relationship Note on Arman
My uncle has returned. Very different from my uncle Niccolo, though every bit as stylish, strong and clever a statesman, my Uncle Arman is a welcome return to my life and and for my house. To my great surprise and delight, he even met my playful customary request for my present with his usual flair and verve.
Before I was sent north, I dare say a younger Valencia was utterly thrilled and perhaps a little bit spoiled by the indulgences of such a good uncle. Always thoughtful. Always kind almost to the point of doting. Gods, how I adored it.
Even in my darkest days, he always knew just how to evoke a smile even when I was determined to be stubbornly be set in poor mood or distress. His wise council was always a blessing and I blossomed in his praise. I suppose I still do in some ways.
In truth, however, his return is treasure enough and I am warmed to know he has finally returned to the city. I always feel just a little bit safer and closer to my family when he is about. It is a wonderful thing to feel. And, though I know he will be in great demand, I hope to see much more of him.
It is funny how we see or return to former shades of ourselves in the right company. It was such a pleasure to see him again. Even for a little while.
~~~~~~~~<~<~<@
Before I was sent north, I dare say a younger Valencia was utterly thrilled and perhaps a little bit spoiled by the indulgences of such a good uncle. Always thoughtful. Always kind almost to the point of doting. Gods, how I adored it.
Even in my darkest days, he always knew just how to evoke a smile even when I was determined to be stubbornly be set in poor mood or distress. His wise council was always a blessing and I blossomed in his praise. I suppose I still do in some ways.
In truth, however, his return is treasure enough and I am warmed to know he has finally returned to the city. I always feel just a little bit safer and closer to my family when he is about. It is a wonderful thing to feel. And, though I know he will be in great demand, I hope to see much more of him.
It is funny how we see or return to former shades of ourselves in the right company. It was such a pleasure to see him again. Even for a little while.
~~~~~~~~<~<~<@
Written By Aelgar
Oct. 3, 2021, 10:37 a.m.(4/24/1016 AR)
I passed the Explorer entrance exam and I have planned to put the skills to use, continuing to polish them while being of some help to the Faith and the Compact. I am not yet much of a threat to anyone in open combat, but I am growing practiced at survival on the road...at exploring and investigating. I hope this will make my reach more significant and my ability to work more flexible. Humanity is mobilizing against various lawless aggressors, much is yet to be learned from old ruins and writings, and I can be of much more use if I can help beyond the walls of the Archives.
Written By Lucita
Oct. 3, 2021, 9:20 a.m.(4/24/1016 AR)
Relationship Note on Macda
Now you have done it again! Getting my thoughts diverted away from my paperwork, away from so many plans that need review and adjustments. Maybe that is a good thing and maybe not. Odd ideas for gifts that can't be stuffed in a wardrobe and forgotten keep coming to mind. A memorial tree that is planted near an entry one walks by every time they enter or leave a house, training lessons that require multiple sessions and reviews, services of a personal messenger or aide or bodyguard or bard following them around and singing or praising them to others for a period of time. And then in the middle of looking over projected wine production for the coming year came the thoughts of fish! Why fish at such a time I don't know but certainly one would not want a live.. or dead... fish stuffed in their wardrobe. A lovely stained glass window somewhere, a few months membership at the Whisper House, craft them a mystery to puzzle out, enlist others to help with it... like everytime they see someone wearing a particular hat or brooch ... to ask them for a secret message that forms a part of .... Oh, I have to get back to work, another packet of reports to review just arrived.
Written By Haakon
Oct. 2, 2021, 11:22 p.m.(4/23/1016 AR)
Medeia had the notion of the lines, each of thirteen beats. So, to mark to turning season:
As white isles grow green with spring and as the days grow long,
Once more to oars and foeman's shores, to raise a steel song.
So we hail our Goddess fair, and so our house grows strong.
As white isles grow green with spring and as the days grow long,
Once more to oars and foeman's shores, to raise a steel song.
So we hail our Goddess fair, and so our house grows strong.
Written By Zakhar
Oct. 2, 2021, 2:07 p.m.(4/22/1016 AR)
If anyone ever says that they can't find greenspace within this stoned village known as the city. They aren't looking very hard. I wrote for guidance to for a project that I'm working on and except for a very small few, all wrote back about how their gardens are their favorite place within their ward.
Perhaps this is something the city can come together upon?
Perhaps this is something the city can come together upon?
Written By Ida
Oct. 2, 2021, 9:27 a.m.(4/22/1016 AR)
It's been awhile since I worked on some bows for the shop, but now I have. I may do some basic armor sets again soon, or maybe some swords. It seems like we may all need some of these things now.
Written By Roran
Oct. 1, 2021, 11:15 p.m.(4/21/1016 AR)
Relationship Note on Wil
Eyes like acorns, I said. But I should note that tonight's dinner with the faith was very lovely even though there were concerns. That's why it's so important the faithful meet together for the light within us grows stronger together. One conversation among many stuck in my mind, so I'll keep it here in the journals as it might be of use to someone else as we were talking about Lagoma, fire cleansing and purifying and other aspects of change and action.
"Yet one must know how to use this." Sister Wilhemina added gently. "Without proper knowledge of invocations, you simply have a fire that you cannot control."
Archlector Roran replied to her, “Knowledge without wisdom is a dangerous thing, I completely agree. Knowing of a thing doesn't mean knowing how to do it. And knowing how to do it doesn't mean you know when to do it, right? While Lagoma spurs us to act, that doesn't mean acting in a way that isn't furthering the good work of the gods, nor saying you're acting to act and try scooting out of accountability for your choices. Beloved Sentinel keeps us accountable, Skald encourages us to choose wisely, even the Thirteenth has us give pause to make sure we're not just leaping to whatever idea pops in the old dome. You're absolutely right, sister." towards Wilhemina.
A fire will consume what it’s fed and grow quickly if not controlled. Lagoma isn't just about action, that's irresponsible. Lagoma is about acting with temperance, using knowledge with wisdom, thinking how our actions help heal a little hurt and make the world just a little bit better than yesterday. Without this, the fire can get out of control and you'll be burned. How often have we seen someone we know be hurt, and not letting grief out, they become bitter and angry? Or someone feeling the bitter sting of love lost and then find themselves hurting others? There's so much power in our actions that the gods look to us to further their good plans for the world. Pray each morning that we try to use that change for good and not lashing out instinctively without control.
And your eyes remind me of acorns, they do.
"Yet one must know how to use this." Sister Wilhemina added gently. "Without proper knowledge of invocations, you simply have a fire that you cannot control."
Archlector Roran replied to her, “Knowledge without wisdom is a dangerous thing, I completely agree. Knowing of a thing doesn't mean knowing how to do it. And knowing how to do it doesn't mean you know when to do it, right? While Lagoma spurs us to act, that doesn't mean acting in a way that isn't furthering the good work of the gods, nor saying you're acting to act and try scooting out of accountability for your choices. Beloved Sentinel keeps us accountable, Skald encourages us to choose wisely, even the Thirteenth has us give pause to make sure we're not just leaping to whatever idea pops in the old dome. You're absolutely right, sister." towards Wilhemina.
A fire will consume what it’s fed and grow quickly if not controlled. Lagoma isn't just about action, that's irresponsible. Lagoma is about acting with temperance, using knowledge with wisdom, thinking how our actions help heal a little hurt and make the world just a little bit better than yesterday. Without this, the fire can get out of control and you'll be burned. How often have we seen someone we know be hurt, and not letting grief out, they become bitter and angry? Or someone feeling the bitter sting of love lost and then find themselves hurting others? There's so much power in our actions that the gods look to us to further their good plans for the world. Pray each morning that we try to use that change for good and not lashing out instinctively without control.
And your eyes remind me of acorns, they do.
Written By Sebastian
Oct. 1, 2021, 10:28 p.m.(4/21/1016 AR)
I can confess, now that I am back in the city, that I snuck out of Arx for the warm familiar shores of the Silken City, the gaze of the Great Titan and the dance of the waves in the Drowned Bay.
Yes, I snuck home.
I am not at all apologetic for that; I got to see my lovely wife and my rapidly growing son.
And all the little places, beautiful and dark; bright and vulnerable; complex and majestic; all welcoming me home.
But spring is here, and I had to return. It is the season of renewal -- and I started it by reaching out to old friends, and starting new ventures.
Yes, I snuck home.
I am not at all apologetic for that; I got to see my lovely wife and my rapidly growing son.
And all the little places, beautiful and dark; bright and vulnerable; complex and majestic; all welcoming me home.
But spring is here, and I had to return. It is the season of renewal -- and I started it by reaching out to old friends, and starting new ventures.
Written By Gwenna
Oct. 1, 2021, 6:51 p.m.(4/21/1016 AR)
I am so grateful to work with such an incredible group of people for House Redrain. Some work more quietly than others, yet I hope they know how much I personally and sincerely appreciate their efforts. This goes beyond those who live in the villa, of course. Still, it has been the members of my family and household that have seen us all through the difficult and leaner times. Who have been there to assist when the House needed it, whether that be through efforts of their own or just listening when I needed an ear or advice about House matters. It makes me proud when we, as a House, can give back in some way or another.
I feel very fortunate that my mother thought to send my brother Artur and I to Arx when she did. I hope we have made her proud (not an easy feat, mind you), as well as our family and friends here in the city. There have been just as many joys as heartaches, and I very much look forward to continuing along this path with all of their support.
I feel very fortunate that my mother thought to send my brother Artur and I to Arx when she did. I hope we have made her proud (not an easy feat, mind you), as well as our family and friends here in the city. There have been just as many joys as heartaches, and I very much look forward to continuing along this path with all of their support.
Written By Iseulet
Oct. 1, 2021, 6:43 p.m.(4/21/1016 AR)
I wish I knew the language the stars spoke so poetically. I should like to listen and listen all night.
Written By Medeia
Oct. 1, 2021, 12:54 p.m.(4/20/1016 AR)
A poem can lift the sunken spirit, truth written,
bringing to light those hidden wounds, healing balm spoken,
allowing growth to flourish in those who will listen.
I am looking forward to the picnic at the sanctuary and hope to see many of the city's fantastic poets there to share their words. The triad is a simple form of three lines, each containing thirteen syllables - it can communicate a lot with so little!
bringing to light those hidden wounds, healing balm spoken,
allowing growth to flourish in those who will listen.
I am looking forward to the picnic at the sanctuary and hope to see many of the city's fantastic poets there to share their words. The triad is a simple form of three lines, each containing thirteen syllables - it can communicate a lot with so little!
Written By Mabelle
Oct. 1, 2021, 8:13 a.m.(4/20/1016 AR)
Despite being advised caution, one must try to learn the truth.
Written By Tesha
Sept. 30, 2021, 10:38 p.m.(4/19/1016 AR)
I'm another year older. Maybe this year I will become the social butterfly that others have wished I was.
Until then, I have this wonderful new table to do accounting on. It has a built in abacus.
Until then, I have this wonderful new table to do accounting on. It has a built in abacus.
Written By Viviana
Sept. 30, 2021, 6:09 p.m.(4/19/1016 AR)
There's a bird called the river kingfisher, Scholar, did you know that?
Written By Mattheu
Sept. 30, 2021, 8:56 a.m.(4/18/1016 AR)
A whirlwind of momentum heading into spring, spinning, dancing, learning of old traits, and finding new friends along with being able to share a playful dance with those that I've already begun to know. So many good things are occurring within the city, while the whole declares that my family and those like us are to be kept under the watchful eye. I can only hope that this means that they will hold true to the promises of being helpful and kind. Though only time will tell there.
Individuals are amazing, and for each that I am able to talk and be with, they allow me to be myself, and not some version of a shell that stands before them.
Though I am always watchful, and do know there are times in which I must keep my head down and my bells silent.
Individuals are amazing, and for each that I am able to talk and be with, they allow me to be myself, and not some version of a shell that stands before them.
Though I am always watchful, and do know there are times in which I must keep my head down and my bells silent.
Written By Zakhar
Sept. 30, 2021, 8:48 a.m.(4/18/1016 AR)
a moment of too much smoke and suddenly I was referring to everyone as the Archduchess. I'm surprised that more of the nobles didn't correct me. It was as if they all wished to be her. For one reason or another, this sounds fitting...
Written By Cassiopeia
Sept. 30, 2021, 1:04 a.m.(4/17/1016 AR)
Dearest reader,
I remember when I was little girl, sitting up on the ledge of a wall, looking down the mountain at the jungles far, far below. Everything looked so small and I felt so big. Then, there was a point in which that flipped and everything turned upside down. Pieces everywhere. Scattered. But I'm still sitting on top of the mountain, even though the world isn't so far below. When you stop running, everything catches up, but if you are still enough, it just keeps going.
There hasn't been a single moment, that I haven't felt blessed. It's not always pleasant, it is has taken perseverance and strife, but that is what makes everything so much more important now.
Tonight I welcomed home, my brother returned, and my cousin who has never yet set foot on this ground. To see home in their eyes, to have us all together, that is home for me. Thank you.
I see so many beautiful faces when I looked around, and I am in awe.
I remember when I was little girl, sitting up on the ledge of a wall, looking down the mountain at the jungles far, far below. Everything looked so small and I felt so big. Then, there was a point in which that flipped and everything turned upside down. Pieces everywhere. Scattered. But I'm still sitting on top of the mountain, even though the world isn't so far below. When you stop running, everything catches up, but if you are still enough, it just keeps going.
There hasn't been a single moment, that I haven't felt blessed. It's not always pleasant, it is has taken perseverance and strife, but that is what makes everything so much more important now.
Tonight I welcomed home, my brother returned, and my cousin who has never yet set foot on this ground. To see home in their eyes, to have us all together, that is home for me. Thank you.
I see so many beautiful faces when I looked around, and I am in awe.
Written By Grady
Sept. 29, 2021, 11:01 p.m.(4/17/1016 AR)
Relationship Note on Savio
It would be an odd world, wouldn't it be, if we were not all of us at least a little bit human. Fallible, weak in all the ways we don't want to be, sometimes even broken. A little bit prone to anger, to judgement, a little bit frightened, a little bit selfish, vain.
Do you think we so recoil from these traits when we see them in others because they embody so much of what we hate about ourselves? I hadn't thought of the question in that light until just now.
I do apologize for setting none of this in verse. While I know we all of us need a good laugh every now and again, you will forgive me, I hope, if I save the particular joke that is my attempts at poetry so that it remains between my wife and myself. You are a gifted musician, but her laughter, I think, must be the more beautiful music.
And there it is. There we see MY particular bit of vanity. This is a white journal, after all. There are traditions which much be upheld.
Do you think we so recoil from these traits when we see them in others because they embody so much of what we hate about ourselves? I hadn't thought of the question in that light until just now.
I do apologize for setting none of this in verse. While I know we all of us need a good laugh every now and again, you will forgive me, I hope, if I save the particular joke that is my attempts at poetry so that it remains between my wife and myself. You are a gifted musician, but her laughter, I think, must be the more beautiful music.
And there it is. There we see MY particular bit of vanity. This is a white journal, after all. There are traditions which much be upheld.
Written By Savio
Sept. 29, 2021, 3:53 p.m.(4/17/1016 AR)
An Ode to the White Journals II
Mine is the best and I want you to know
That none are better than mine
You have something different than me
And I guess, for you, that's fine
I would never call you by name
Or describe your choices with doubt
But a pointed word here, a little jab there
You'll know who I'm talking about
Darling, don't be cross about this
Don't send me a sour reply
Cause I've made sure that all I said
Can be plausibly denied
Mine is the best and I'm making a point
That I am better than you
Take it and like it, smile and nod
Of course, what else can you do?
Mine is the best and I want you to know
That none are better than mine
You have something different than me
And I guess, for you, that's fine
I would never call you by name
Or describe your choices with doubt
But a pointed word here, a little jab there
You'll know who I'm talking about
Darling, don't be cross about this
Don't send me a sour reply
Cause I've made sure that all I said
Can be plausibly denied
Mine is the best and I'm making a point
That I am better than you
Take it and like it, smile and nod
Of course, what else can you do?
Written By Medeia
Sept. 29, 2021, 12:46 a.m.(4/15/1016 AR)
My husband went to Bastion to help discover the state of things in the wake of the horrific losses there. He returned injured, but I suspect he took a head injury I was not informed of. He speaks of his deeds in the last year - leaving off nearly an entire year of our marriage! The twins will be a year old in a handful of days.
I worry about the world that will be when they are old enough to embark on the kinds of missions that Haakon and I are duty-bound to go on. Will those of us working so hard make enough of a difference that what they face is less daunting? I hope so, and that is why I do not shirk my duty. Hope is not a passive thing, we must actively engage in it.
And in the meantime, I will seek those moments of humor and joy that I can so that they do not lose out on their childhood. They will grow up knowing they are loved and seeing an example of a political marriage that thrives.
I worry about the world that will be when they are old enough to embark on the kinds of missions that Haakon and I are duty-bound to go on. Will those of us working so hard make enough of a difference that what they face is less daunting? I hope so, and that is why I do not shirk my duty. Hope is not a passive thing, we must actively engage in it.
And in the meantime, I will seek those moments of humor and joy that I can so that they do not lose out on their childhood. They will grow up knowing they are loved and seeing an example of a political marriage that thrives.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.