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Written By Isolde

Jan. 8, 2017, 4:56 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)

Today I made Talen his favorite tea. I hope he likes it!

Written By Dawn

Jan. 8, 2017, 4:54 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)

I've burned a lot of bridges this week. For those I've hurt and angered, I'm sorry. It is true, I would rather people suffer with the effects of my abdication while -living- than to see everything and everyone die. I know there will be suffering as the Regent Council steps into the place I held. I know that there is fear, confusion, anger, a lack of clear direction. I know all of this, and I choose my course in spite of it, because in my heart of hearts, I think we all die if I don't.

Yes, I barred others from making this choice, and removed from them the opportunity to decide for themselves. This is both arrogance and abuse of power, and I accept that charge. If I live, I'll live with that weight along with all the rest, for however many days I have.

For those who feel that I condemn the world or the Compact to some worse fate by doing as I do, I can only say... the days to come will show the truth of the matter, and if I am wrong, then I pray the gods judge me harshly for it. If I am wrong and I live? Then I will accept whatever punishment comes to me for my actions.

You have every right to be angry. I understand.

In the event of my death, I publicly declare that I release the contents of my black reflections, save for any that the High Lord of Grayson deems too sensitive. You will know which I mean, cousin, when you look through my writing. I wish that I had had more time to record every thought, every lesson learned, every seed of every threat, every scrap... I tried to share them where I could, spread them to those who could and would help. It wasn't enough. There is never enough time. But I leave them in your keeping and I trust that you will use what I did record wisely.

In the event of my death, I ask that Grayson support the families of the men and women who go with me, to lay their lives upon an altar in the defense of the Compact they have sworn to protect. I also ask that Grayson receive the silver in my bank account, and that they put it towards both our defense and the creation of an additional hall in the Hall of Heroes for those same men and women. They are heroes, every one of them, and deserve that recognition, whatever others may think and feel about me.

To those who shared my heart, and my thoughts, who spent those rare and precious quiet moments with me, who steadied me on the path I was called to walk, who supported and cared and who suffer for my actions now... I am sorry. It isn't enough. I wasn't enough. If there are other lives after this one, if we are so fortunate as to be allowed another turn on the wheel, I go from Arx praying that this life and the next bring you all of the happiness you deserve.

Gods bless and keep you.

With respect,
Dawn

Written By Hadrian

Jan. 8, 2017, 4:54 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)

Duchess Belladonna's birthday! I love parties, it is perhaps the dangerous combination of alcohol, new faces, and the generally upbeat atmosphere; everybody is happy, nobody seems to worry, and it's an energy that I feel most comfortable in. Merry people make merry conversation, faces have smiles, and people fawn over each other after a distant, long absence -parties are delightful.

This one was not. I had some earrings made, thought I was clever, Joboo and I arrived at their estate. Pravus has been our ally for a long, long time. I'm not certain what changed. When I returned we greeted one another like old friends, but now she greets me like a lepered stranger. I could feel Valkieri's scowl on me -not sure what that was about, either, I thought we got along fairly well at the dinner. Lady Lianne was there! I enjoyed her company in our previous meetings, but she was quickly drowned by throngs of men that I had no interest in causing them to join Valkieri in scowling.

Calypso's method of a letter was better, in retrospect. She could not attend though I asked her, but it may have been fortuitous. The striking change in welcome causes doubt in the strength of our alliance, and my lack of sleep has not at all helped. Paranoid, I'm told, but I am well aware of these nobles that will stab me while smiling. I'm not concerned; the roles we play are vital. If I am to he cast as the wicked Duke, I will play my part perfectly. I may just have fun doing so.

Written By Cara

Jan. 8, 2017, 4:18 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)

Relationship Note on Dawn

Lady Dawn -- and I'll not call her anything less than that, no matter who might say otherwise -- is a woman of surpassing bravery, kindness, and compassion. She has without fail sacrificed for the people Arvum, daily, though I am certain that those who have never born responsibility for the lives of others would only imagine privilege. I, who have some small inkling of what her calendar entailed, understand otherwise.

She slept but little, staying awake until the deep hours of the night reading missives for the Crown, writing message after message. She rose early, having meeting after meeting regarding concerns from not only High Lords but lesser nobility and commoners, too. She took barely a breath for her own delight or comfort, instead working herself near to exhaustion that the rest of the Compact might have what peace and prosperity was possible.

And she did so while grieving deeply for her brother, trapped in his twilight state.

She is a wonderful woman, and I am proud beyond belief to call her my friend.

Written By Sylvie

Jan. 8, 2017, 4:13 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)

Relationship Note on Eleyna

I have found a singular person in the Compact that sees the world exactly as I do, it seems. I feel I may call her a friend, but it is more than friendship. To find someone that you can work with so closely, that you can share your every thought with, because they already know it?

No, it's something else. I am glad to call her a friend as well, however. I hope that we can always work together for the betterment of the Lyceum and the Compact.

Written By Brogan

Jan. 8, 2017, 4:07 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)

The world's gone a bit mad of late, by all accounts. All the more reason to drink deep, and enjoy the present, rather than fear the future.

Written By Brogan

Jan. 8, 2017, 4:05 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)

Relationship Note on Aleksei

You don't often meet a knighted man who's sword stays sheathed when insult is offered, much less one as seemingly accustomed to throwing fists instead of flowery prose. I shall have to find some work for the man.

Written By Valencia

Jan. 8, 2017, 4:03 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)

Finally, a much wanted and long awaited respite from mutual hostility and hopefully the beginning of a lasting peace was struck between myself and she who has called me enemy.

The agreement as it stands will last at least until our mutual enemy has been defeated.

With hope, bonds and mutual respect will blossom and perhaps a lasting peace will be born of this. I am cautiously optimistic.

I pray that others will see fit to do the same so we can be a united city. Our enemy is at the gate if not already inside, and we do not have the luxury of time to be hateful to each other.

Gods above and below, please help us see our way before its too late.

~~~<~<@

Written By Darrow

Jan. 8, 2017, 3:57 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)

Relationship Note on Jasher

I remember him from my time as a ward in Maelstrom.

He has...he remembers the Lament, as well, and the Weeping Isle. My father's keep.

Written By Felix

Jan. 8, 2017, 3:38 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)

Relationship Note on Cassius

He's a good, trustworthy man. I would be confident putting my life in his hands.

Written By Leola

Jan. 8, 2017, 2:36 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)

The Great Escape
- the animals burst from the Menagerie. Lady General Calypso was pleased to allow me, as the first spear of the Lodge, to lead efforts in retrieving and saving them. I personally returned the great white bear to the cages, and assisted many others in handling the animals. Hopefully, this will do much to improve the standing of Petrichor's Lodge.

Stepping Down
- The Lady Regent stepped down, and left, to do what she felt was right. As much as that was denied myself, by her and the former Baron, I might profit by following her example.

Written By Larissa

Jan. 8, 2017, 2:23 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)

Relationship Note on Brogan

Another of the Nightgolds I am utterly enamored with. An older gentleman more inclined to drink from the bottle than a glass. A laugh and a smile never seems too far from his lips and I'd hope to spend more evenings in his company again.

Written By Larissa

Jan. 8, 2017, 2:21 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)

Relationship Note on Sigurd

A chance meeting with he and his Uncle at the Salon had me completely and utterly charmed. Yet another reason to fall absolutely in love with the Nightgold family.

Written By Eirene

Jan. 8, 2017, 2:04 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)

Relationship Note on Juliet

Smarter than she looks, and she looks very damn good. A newfound appreciation for her above and beyond flirtation and good alcohol.

Written By Sigurd

Jan. 8, 2017, 1:57 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)

As I sit here, surrounded by missives and reports and proclamations of these dire events, and all the myriad of things people have to say about them, I worry that /this/ is the danger of our new system.

Too many voices. Too many voices, all with more voices in their ears. A multitude of different aims and different goals. Oh, perhaps the same overarching states goal: to save Arx and Arvum. But the idea for '/how/ to do that? We are of as many minds as there are stars in the sky.

It is the enemy of progress. I only hope that our esteemed leaders realize this and can be strong. especially now.

Written By Darrow

Jan. 8, 2017, 1:36 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)

Thirteen.

Thirteen gods, thirteen sacrifices. I have killed - put down, a dozen of Thrax men, pirates, their minds poisoned. In one single battle - a slaughter. The crews, put to death, and their boats scuttled.

My sword a cut down a drop in the tide of blood we saw spilled. Agents of these Stewards, of those Houses, of whomever we face - the Silence, murdered hundreds and left as many more mindless. Chattel to be executed.

And these bickerers bemoan the loss of a family member, of thirteen men and women? Against the chance of stopping a such greater toll? It is a grain of sand against an ocean. Two crossmarks on a page. The number of a small fishing family.

Death is what awaits us all - all we walk is our journey to the place behind the mirror.

My sisters, my brothers - died upon crosses, sacrificed for vengeance and greed by the Tydes.

I suppose they should feel lucky that there are at least thirteen who think there is aught worth saving in the Compact...

Written By Bethany

Jan. 8, 2017, 1:17 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)

[ The following letter has been added to the Archive in place of an entry. It is written in overly-meticulous script, blocky: ]

Dear Father and Mother,

It has been some time since I penned a letter, and even longer since I left the city to visit the Vale and more specifically, the Estate. I hope that you are both well, and keeping safe with the Guard that Lazarus sent over. Between us, I know that Lord Tobias is honorable - despite the betrayal of the former Lord Commander, Everard. It was a shrewd decision that Lazarus made, securing those forces, and I hope that you will understand why considering our enemies and the devastation that follows in their wake.

Certainly, you have been given news of the events as they unfolded at the most recent Assembly of Peers - so, I will avoid the reiteration of thoughts and opinions that are possibly best kept to myself (and out of this letter.) Otherwise, I know, that Father will send me a lengthy response and will refer to papers and texts that I should possibly read.

Also, please remind Father that he should remain seated for the following: yes, I have accepted new employment. I have gained so much more momentum beyond those days of that pianoforte performance that impressed the Lady Alarys so - (as I told Silas moments after I sent in my resignation) - my ambitions have outgrown the position. I have a patron, now, and the freedom to pursue my own interests. I know that you both wanted more for me, a higher place in society, and I understood your reasons for doing so were for the betterment of our family.

Ultimately, everything is for the advancement for the family. There are times, in fits of pique, that I utterly resent you for it. Other times, when my heart swells with so much emotion that I could burst from gratitude for it. I suppose that is the strange and complicated relationship between a child and their parents. Moving forward, I take steps toward my advancement - for which I hope you will not begrudge me for. I shall always strive to have you be proud of me in word and deed.

(There is more, Mother, but I will detail the more personal news to you in another letter.)

Of course, despite all threats, I am hopeful that the season will be a fruitful one for us. I will organize to make a visit in the early autumn to assist with the harvest and with the seasonal accounts.

Always, your youngest,

Beth

Written By Lou

Jan. 8, 2017, 1:11 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)

I have finally made it back home. I had left the city after feeling like an empty glass in a room filled with thirsty people. I spent time out in the wild, enjoying the bright moon, sparkling stars, beautiful scenery. However, I discovered that during my time out there, I felt I was missing something. I need my family just as much as I need the wild and the skies. I need these things like a thirsty person needs water. It warmed me to know that my family welcomed me back home with open arms. Especially my husband. Mason showed me his true love immediately. We took time to bond once more and enjoy time together with our daughter.

Written By Samantha

Jan. 8, 2017, 1:10 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)

There are many who have wondered at the full story of my origin, and so I offer it now in the White Journal, to the edification of any who care to read it.

I was born at Deepwood, at around the same time as Samantha Deepwood and given the name Ivy. My mother was a servant of the House, my father unknown - though it has been speculated by many that given my uncanny resemblance to the original Samantha, it is likely that my father was the Marquis as well. Samantha was born with a birthmark on her right thigh - a star just like that which represents one of the Lost Gods. This was the deity worshipped by the Rex'alfar before they turned to the Silence, and despite the Marquessa's efforts to hide her daughter's birthmark, they found out, and set their agents to the purpose of murdering Samantha Deepwood.

They infiltrated the household by the time she and I were five years old. I don't know how they did it, only that when the Marquis heard that shavs (manipulated by the Rex'alfar and the Rex'alfar's agents) were coming to destroy Old Oak and the family, they managed to convince him that the best course of action was to sneak the family out disguised as commoners, and use decoys in their place at the manor. This would deliver them to the human agents of the Rex'alfar, who slaughtered every single one of them.

As a child, I was solicited, tricked, and manipulated into becoming Samantha's decoy. I was told repeatedly that I was Samantha, cultivated both through punishment and reward into beieving it. I believe their intention was to see me grow into adulthood as a dedicated servant of the Rex'alfar, infiltrate the noble class, and be a poison from within. They then proceeded to torture and kill the other decoys, a sight I witnessed with my own eyes and haunts my nightmares even to this day. But they were not expecting the arrival of Duke Bisland - or if they were, they could not predict the result. He and his forces destroyed those remaining and rescued me, amidst the blood and torture and horror. I spent much of the rest of my childhood at Pridehall, the foster daughter of the Duke and Duchess, and the foster sibling of their natural born children. And for much of that time, I genuinely believed myself to be Samantha Deepwood. As I entered womanhood, I was able to realize that this was a falsehood.

But by this time, it was too late for me. I had come so far, been raised as Samantha, and had been Samantha for most of my life. The penalties for impersonating a noble, however unintentionally, were harsh - death, at the worst. I was trapped in this life, and so I decided the best thing I could do was use the principles taught to me by House Bisland - about honor, duty, and loyalty - to be what I believed the nobility should be; people with the power to raise those beneath them for the better, to protect them and care for them. If you are given power, it should be used to do good in this world.

Shortly after I came to Arx, I was contacted by a man who knew my birthname. He tried to extort me into betraying the people of Arvum by forcing me to push the agenda of the Rex'alfar - encouraged me to promote military action in the Gray Forest to the Crown, or he would reveal my true origin. While the King's Rest allowed me some means of belaying him, when Lady Dawn became Regent, I knew the time would come when I could no longer keep him patient.

That man is Chanse Grayhope. He is currently at large, and it is my sincere wish that he is brought to justice. He is an agent of the Rex'alfar, and I believe I may not be the only person of noble rank in this city he has tried to extort on their behalf.

This is my story, for good or ill. It is my hope that people recognize that if the Rex'alfar are willing to go as far as they have, they truly fear the Teind, which means it obviously holds some power to stop them. This is not an idle thing to dismiss. May the gods help us all in our time of need.

Written By Leola

Jan. 8, 2017, 1:08 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)

Business this week
- 2000 silver from Lady General Calypso

Spent at the Leathers to improve my armor. Spear next. Brier coming along nicely. Now constantly outpacing the other horses of the stables.

Explained my ongoing commitments with Valardin to the Lady General. Need to dress smartly for visiting the Minister of Agriculture next week at her stables next week.

Lady Juliet Fidante arranged an assistant for me. A very sweet girl called Lindsey, who seems to be as busy constantly around myself as I was about my family. She's a great boon, and I am thankful

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