Written By Dawn
Jan. 4, 2017, 6:13 p.m.(7/26/1005 AR)
One lesson I learned from my father was to always have another plan. One of the requirements of always having another plan is to constantly be re-evaluating and revising. When something doesn't work, you must be prepared to react instantly and try something else. It's the only way, Father said, to not be swept off the board. Stay true to your roots but ensure that those roots are not so firmly planted that you cannot adjust.
It is time for me to adjust. I have a responsibility, it was set for me by my birth. It is not just to the Compact, or to my brother. It is to Arvum, to every soul and scrap of life on this continent. It is my responsibility to look after them, and to make of myself what is needed to succeed in that.
It is time to change. It is time to set the childhood hopes I've clung to aside.
I will be what is needed, even if that is not what is wanted. That is what I was born for. That is why I am here. It is what my father would have done and what my brother could not do.
It's time.
It is time for me to adjust. I have a responsibility, it was set for me by my birth. It is not just to the Compact, or to my brother. It is to Arvum, to every soul and scrap of life on this continent. It is my responsibility to look after them, and to make of myself what is needed to succeed in that.
It is time to change. It is time to set the childhood hopes I've clung to aside.
I will be what is needed, even if that is not what is wanted. That is what I was born for. That is why I am here. It is what my father would have done and what my brother could not do.
It's time.
Written By Niamh
Jan. 4, 2017, 5:26 p.m.(7/26/1005 AR)
Prince Edain and Lady Aislin have agreed to allow my Ministry to investigate the blights on their lands. It is not what I expected to be doing as Minister of Agriculture, but it fits the mandate. I have had two alchemists respond. If I can get Rowan and Leola to agree as well then I will call the group complete for now.
Written By Aldwin
Jan. 4, 2017, 4:16 p.m.(7/26/1005 AR)
Writing Our Legacy
An Excerpt on White Journals
During the Reckoning, Vellichor commanded that the most learned among the population should devote themselves to safeguarding the knowledge of mankind, and that all, whether low born or high, should be allowed to keep a record of their lives in the form of journals. We do this in honor of Vellichor's sacrifice and to fulfill the commandment of one of our gods, and any reading these words is likely familiar with our White Journals and Black Reflections.
White Journals have been a mainstay of our society for over a thousand years. They not only fulfill Vellichor's requirements to us as a people, but they also provide us a way to aid ourselves. The God of Wisdom shows himself worthy of his appellation in this way. Not only do we write as a form of offering and worship to the God of Histories, but we provide a historical record and a medium to capture knowledge that we, ourselves, may use for our own edification. Keeping up with the White Journals often leaves us with a problem that many struggle with: is what I write worthy of Vellichor?
As Archscholar, one of the most frequent questions I have receive has been whether or not something was worthy of a journal, and was worthy of inclusion in the Archives. Sometimes this comes with regret, when an evening of drinking and revelry has lead to documenting what might otherwise be a regrettable evening. Sometimes this comes from one person trying to look down their nose on another's writings. I can say surety that in any truth we write in our white journals is a worthy offering of Vellichor.
When a Scholar, or any curious mind of the realm, looks through the Archives and pulls forth a journal in research, they can use even the most minute bits of writing to help a distant period of time or a far-flung corner of the realm come to life. We do not mind vulgarity in the Journals, if you are one to use vulgarity. We do not mind if you decide to document your fornication, if that is important to you. We use the writing we have to learn, and learning includes getting a feel for the author. Ask any who have studied the works of King Tyrval and they will tell you that his writing, though often enough not about a scholarly subject, help paint a picture of the man himself.
While I might caution many to think about the presentation they will make of themselves when others read their journals, the truth is that my strongest desire is that the true self shows through.
An Excerpt on White Journals
During the Reckoning, Vellichor commanded that the most learned among the population should devote themselves to safeguarding the knowledge of mankind, and that all, whether low born or high, should be allowed to keep a record of their lives in the form of journals. We do this in honor of Vellichor's sacrifice and to fulfill the commandment of one of our gods, and any reading these words is likely familiar with our White Journals and Black Reflections.
White Journals have been a mainstay of our society for over a thousand years. They not only fulfill Vellichor's requirements to us as a people, but they also provide us a way to aid ourselves. The God of Wisdom shows himself worthy of his appellation in this way. Not only do we write as a form of offering and worship to the God of Histories, but we provide a historical record and a medium to capture knowledge that we, ourselves, may use for our own edification. Keeping up with the White Journals often leaves us with a problem that many struggle with: is what I write worthy of Vellichor?
As Archscholar, one of the most frequent questions I have receive has been whether or not something was worthy of a journal, and was worthy of inclusion in the Archives. Sometimes this comes with regret, when an evening of drinking and revelry has lead to documenting what might otherwise be a regrettable evening. Sometimes this comes from one person trying to look down their nose on another's writings. I can say surety that in any truth we write in our white journals is a worthy offering of Vellichor.
When a Scholar, or any curious mind of the realm, looks through the Archives and pulls forth a journal in research, they can use even the most minute bits of writing to help a distant period of time or a far-flung corner of the realm come to life. We do not mind vulgarity in the Journals, if you are one to use vulgarity. We do not mind if you decide to document your fornication, if that is important to you. We use the writing we have to learn, and learning includes getting a feel for the author. Ask any who have studied the works of King Tyrval and they will tell you that his writing, though often enough not about a scholarly subject, help paint a picture of the man himself.
While I might caution many to think about the presentation they will make of themselves when others read their journals, the truth is that my strongest desire is that the true self shows through.
Written By Denica
Jan. 4, 2017, 2:01 p.m.(7/26/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Donella
This entry is written in the usual looping script, though it appears as if a concerted effort has been employed to keep the page clean, free of splotches or crossed out words.
In Whose Shadow I Stand
Donella. I knew her shadow was big enough to cast over me all the way from Arx to Maelstrom, did I ever expect it not to be deeper and darker in close proximity? I have changed since we were children--I have changed indeed since last year!--but it takes such a long time to impress that change upon the expectations of others, if even possible.
I am not complaining, really. I know I brought this on myself. I traded the currency of my reputation away, burned it for reasons even I cannot defend, now, as being little more than a need for personal importance, for attention. These two things Donella has amassed through sheer wit and force of will. I, stupidly, never conceived of that until recently.
In Whose Shadow I Stand, also known as: The Everlasting Plight of the Younger Sister
Princess Denica of Thrax
P.S.: I suppose I'm getting the hang of this.
Written By Darrow
Jan. 4, 2017, 1:37 p.m.(7/26/1005 AR)
I have begun to suspect that someone has been rifling through my possessions.
This tome had been turned to a different page, and my crow's feather page mark had been moved.
The thralls know not to touch it.
Is someone looking at my notes?
DD
This tome had been turned to a different page, and my crow's feather page mark had been moved.
The thralls know not to touch it.
Is someone looking at my notes?
DD
Written By Calista
Jan. 4, 2017, 1:08 p.m.(7/26/1005 AR)
I found this quote and could not help but feel immediately connected to it. It spoke to me as if it knew exactly what was going on in my mind and in my heart at that very second. I cannot take credit for it but I write it here for someone else who might take the same comfort from these words:
"I have seen many storms in my life. Most storms have caught me by surprise, so I had to learn very quickly to look further and understand that I am not capable of controlling the weather, to exercise the art of patience and to respect the fury of nature."
(ooc: by Paulo Coelho)
"I have seen many storms in my life. Most storms have caught me by surprise, so I had to learn very quickly to look further and understand that I am not capable of controlling the weather, to exercise the art of patience and to respect the fury of nature."
(ooc: by Paulo Coelho)
Written By Eirene
Jan. 4, 2017, 11:49 a.m.(7/26/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Kima
Written By Kima
Jan. 4, 2017, 2:35 a.m.
Do you ever hear a thing so stupid you hope it gets enacted just so the parties involve have to suffer the consequences of their idiocy?
**A note left on a scrap of paper on this page of Kima's journal**
WELCOME TO MY LIFE - EIRENE
Jan. 4, 2017, 2:35 a.m.
Do you ever hear a thing so stupid you hope it gets enacted just so the parties involve have to suffer the consequences of their idiocy?
**A note left on a scrap of paper on this page of Kima's journal**
WELCOME TO MY LIFE - EIRENE
Written By Lark
Jan. 4, 2017, 10:38 a.m.(7/25/1005 AR)
With Grayson forces engaged in response preparations to an imminent military threat, it comes to our great house to stand with them. Allowances for Grayson family members and any others who might volunteer are to be temporarily withheld in order to conserve resources, with exceptions to be made on a case-by-case basis.
It is to each of us to do our part, set an example for the realm at this perilous time, and support the brave men and women risking themselves so that we might remain safe.
It is to each of us to do our part, set an example for the realm at this perilous time, and support the brave men and women risking themselves so that we might remain safe.
Written By Monique
Jan. 4, 2017, 10:02 a.m.(7/25/1005 AR)
The amusing things that can (and will) occur in the Sleepless Knight. For being a tavern with little to offer in the way of alcoholic libation and a dour, oppressive atmosphere we certainly find ways to liven it up! Or maybe its just me...
Neve, remember to apply yourself to your lessons with Prince Aurelian! They'll be useful later on. Uncle Muiryn is still entirely too easy to tease and I will never not adore that about him. One of these days he's going to clout me for it, but until then... the game is on!
And to the self-proclaimed 'plain' Prince of Valardin? Your Highness, if all it takes to prick your hide is a little innocent teasing not even aimed in your direction? You may want to look into thickening that skin if you're going to swim with the sharks. They do so love the scent of blood in the water, after all.
Neve, remember to apply yourself to your lessons with Prince Aurelian! They'll be useful later on. Uncle Muiryn is still entirely too easy to tease and I will never not adore that about him. One of these days he's going to clout me for it, but until then... the game is on!
And to the self-proclaimed 'plain' Prince of Valardin? Your Highness, if all it takes to prick your hide is a little innocent teasing not even aimed in your direction? You may want to look into thickening that skin if you're going to swim with the sharks. They do so love the scent of blood in the water, after all.
Written By Killian
Jan. 4, 2017, 10:01 a.m.(7/25/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Gabriel
My teacher and mentor in a difficult time of my life.
Written By Bethany
Jan. 4, 2017, 9:07 a.m.(7/25/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Silas
I sincerely apologize for every time I might have stifled a laugh whenever someone bested my dear brother Silas in a spar, duel, or fierce dancing competition -
( My bruises have bruises. Brother, I am in woeful need of training. )
( My bruises have bruises. Brother, I am in woeful need of training. )
Written By Aldwin
Jan. 4, 2017, 8:31 a.m.(7/25/1005 AR)
In the front hall of the Hall of Heroes are the tombs of those who gave their lives for the defense of Arx, yet were not of Arx. They were not members of the Compact. They were not nobles of the Realm, as you see in many of the other wings. They were not commoners, as many of us are. They were strangers that came from distant lands and rallied in the defense of our people during our time of need. In my time as Archscholar, I have had many conversations with people in that hall. We have talked about the inspiration that they are to us, personally, and how they spark the imagination as giants of unknown history. Of those there, the Metallic Order have always resonated the most with me.
Lilah Shay, known as Silver, is among the most inspiring. Her placard does not contain her last words. There's no inspiring speech given. Instead, what you have is an account of how her gallantry inspired those around her to rally to her call and help hold back the darkness they were facing. She lead the charge against Galrigor, caring more for the safety of the wounded and infirm than for herself.
It was this gallantry that went on to inspire the Silver Guard, known now as the Knights of Solace. Grandmaster Donovan Valardin of the Knights of Solace wrote one of the first white journals after the Great Fire of Arx to be stored in the newly built Great Archive, delivered to the Archive posthumously. "The Silver Order has been nearly extinguished in the war against the Sylv'alfar. We've long been the guardians of the roads, the caretakers of pilgrims, and the Sylv'alfar claim all the wilds and most of the lands between the remaining strongholds of man have been lost to us. The last of us are gathered near Samar's ruins of Eastguard, where two thousand refugees of the sick and wounded lay behind us, with Legion's hounds closing in. We are cut off, but word has come that Alarice's host is two days from us. The men believe we cannot hold, but I told them of the story Lilah Shay. We founded our order to honor her memory, as the member of the Metallic Order that died so the defenseless might survive. We founded our order with the words, 'As Arx endures, we will remember.' We do not have her light, nor any of the gifts of the Metallics, but we have our swords, our will, and our strength of honor. We need to hold for two days. I pray to the gods that is enough. If we succeed, I ask for this letter to be preserved. -Grandmaster Donovan, Lord Commander of the Silver Order of the Knights of Solace"
To me, Lilah Shay's legacy is not some idea that she could summon a light to hold back literal darkness, but rather it is one of courage and hope. She was an inspiration, and many heroic deeds have been done in her memory since then, and continue to be done today. Courage, hope, and inspiration are the strongest gifts the gods give us.
Lilah Shay, known as Silver, is among the most inspiring. Her placard does not contain her last words. There's no inspiring speech given. Instead, what you have is an account of how her gallantry inspired those around her to rally to her call and help hold back the darkness they were facing. She lead the charge against Galrigor, caring more for the safety of the wounded and infirm than for herself.
It was this gallantry that went on to inspire the Silver Guard, known now as the Knights of Solace. Grandmaster Donovan Valardin of the Knights of Solace wrote one of the first white journals after the Great Fire of Arx to be stored in the newly built Great Archive, delivered to the Archive posthumously. "The Silver Order has been nearly extinguished in the war against the Sylv'alfar. We've long been the guardians of the roads, the caretakers of pilgrims, and the Sylv'alfar claim all the wilds and most of the lands between the remaining strongholds of man have been lost to us. The last of us are gathered near Samar's ruins of Eastguard, where two thousand refugees of the sick and wounded lay behind us, with Legion's hounds closing in. We are cut off, but word has come that Alarice's host is two days from us. The men believe we cannot hold, but I told them of the story Lilah Shay. We founded our order to honor her memory, as the member of the Metallic Order that died so the defenseless might survive. We founded our order with the words, 'As Arx endures, we will remember.' We do not have her light, nor any of the gifts of the Metallics, but we have our swords, our will, and our strength of honor. We need to hold for two days. I pray to the gods that is enough. If we succeed, I ask for this letter to be preserved. -Grandmaster Donovan, Lord Commander of the Silver Order of the Knights of Solace"
To me, Lilah Shay's legacy is not some idea that she could summon a light to hold back literal darkness, but rather it is one of courage and hope. She was an inspiration, and many heroic deeds have been done in her memory since then, and continue to be done today. Courage, hope, and inspiration are the strongest gifts the gods give us.
Written By Halsim
Jan. 4, 2017, 8:12 a.m.(7/25/1005 AR)
In this world of secrets and manipulation, people like to forget that we still have our minds and our will.
Regardless of anything else that comes our way, you can be certain that there is hope as long as there is a will to keep going, despite the conflict.
Regardless of anything else that comes our way, you can be certain that there is hope as long as there is a will to keep going, despite the conflict.
Written By Natalia
Jan. 4, 2017, 5:35 a.m.(7/25/1005 AR)
Just when I think my spirit can suffer no more darkness, I find a ray of hope. A light in the darkness from a simple, kind smile that gives me hope I am not alone.
Perhaps he will like Nightfall once it has been completed. I wanted a work of art that is worthy of all he represents to me; light in the darkness.
Perhaps he will like Nightfall once it has been completed. I wanted a work of art that is worthy of all he represents to me; light in the darkness.
Written By Kima
Jan. 4, 2017, 2:35 a.m.(7/24/1005 AR)
Do you ever hear a thing so stupid you hope it gets enacted just so the parties involve have to suffer the consequences of their idiocy?
Written By Nadia
Jan. 4, 2017, 12:53 a.m.(7/24/1005 AR)
Uncle Brogan has done it, again. I blame Sigurd for this.
Written By Serafine
Jan. 3, 2017, 11:51 p.m.(7/24/1005 AR)
the warrior broken sought the wind
wandered paths she knew by heart
carried onward past the fields
slaughtered sovereigns, blown apart
it was the sea she found to be
the call of something dark, deep
it took the babes she wept upon
offered the warrior a place to sleep
she pried her armor from her skin
and threw her blades aside
striding over sand and surf
she surrendered all her pride
but 'fore the waves could embrace
the grieving warrior-mother
a song blew past and pulled along
a melody like no other.
clad in only sky she ran
across the ragged rocks
following a shadowed bird
warrior now a nimble fox
lilting song trailed through the air
like many-ribbons pulled tight
and drug the mother-warrior on
a lasso made of razor light
through the woods past man and beast
a meadow cleared away
and on her knees she fell bleeding
her feet raw and flayed
but oh the song, the magpie sang
it was the same for miles
this bird it perched upon a branch
and coaxed the woman's smile
"You've left behind all you lost,"
the magpie trilled to she,
"unstopped by pain or wounds,
"and your only star was me."
"pretty bird," the woman said,
"your song 'twas pulled me away
"from the brink of ever-sleep,
"how do you have this sway?'
"I collect pretty things,"
"I gather all that I find,
"you, your heart, is pretty too,
"and I'd like to make you mine."
the magpie brought her through the pain
the wounds of loss and grief
and took her off beyond its pale
to the peace of green relief
she won her over, the magpie did
and to this day it's clear to see
at night in summer's highest slumber
the magpie watches over the sea
and just above her edged in green
a warrior clad in only sky
is held aloft on sable wings
her chin and eyes angled high.
wandered paths she knew by heart
carried onward past the fields
slaughtered sovereigns, blown apart
it was the sea she found to be
the call of something dark, deep
it took the babes she wept upon
offered the warrior a place to sleep
she pried her armor from her skin
and threw her blades aside
striding over sand and surf
she surrendered all her pride
but 'fore the waves could embrace
the grieving warrior-mother
a song blew past and pulled along
a melody like no other.
clad in only sky she ran
across the ragged rocks
following a shadowed bird
warrior now a nimble fox
lilting song trailed through the air
like many-ribbons pulled tight
and drug the mother-warrior on
a lasso made of razor light
through the woods past man and beast
a meadow cleared away
and on her knees she fell bleeding
her feet raw and flayed
but oh the song, the magpie sang
it was the same for miles
this bird it perched upon a branch
and coaxed the woman's smile
"You've left behind all you lost,"
the magpie trilled to she,
"unstopped by pain or wounds,
"and your only star was me."
"pretty bird," the woman said,
"your song 'twas pulled me away
"from the brink of ever-sleep,
"how do you have this sway?'
"I collect pretty things,"
"I gather all that I find,
"you, your heart, is pretty too,
"and I'd like to make you mine."
the magpie brought her through the pain
the wounds of loss and grief
and took her off beyond its pale
to the peace of green relief
she won her over, the magpie did
and to this day it's clear to see
at night in summer's highest slumber
the magpie watches over the sea
and just above her edged in green
a warrior clad in only sky
is held aloft on sable wings
her chin and eyes angled high.
Written By Serafine
Jan. 3, 2017, 11:48 p.m.(7/24/1005 AR)
[incoherent doodles of tall pale beings and smaller, shambling, hunched figures]
Written By Bethany
Jan. 3, 2017, 11:47 p.m.(7/24/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Branan
crow lanes
sketched out -
charcoal like black wings.
accent games and wordplay.
sketched out -
charcoal like black wings.
accent games and wordplay.
Written By Bethany
Jan. 3, 2017, 11:07 p.m.(7/24/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Damon
at the center of candlelit green -
silver snow and scales.
one step forward, two back.
silver snow and scales.
one step forward, two back.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.