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Written By Ianthe

Oct. 2, 2016, 6:29 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Viktarkim

You ever meet someone and think that they definitely got the wrong first impression of you?

Written By Ianthe

Oct. 2, 2016, 6:24 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Salazar

This man cusses as if the angels of profanity have blessed his tongue. I think he might have tried to seduce me. I definitely tried to seduce him. Neither of us succeeded.

I'm going to have to reach very deep in my bag of tricks if I'm going to win this game, I think.

Written By Ianthe

Oct. 2, 2016, 6:21 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Edain

Though I haven't a drop of it, I recognize class when I see it. Prince Edain Valardin was challenged to a duel on erroneous charges and he never lost his composure. I tried my best to deflect his challenger with humor and inquiries about his "jib", but it was entirely unneeded.

A stark reminder as to why those with noble blood are a cut above the likes of me: I would have stabbed anyone who talked to me like that in the leg with my boot knife.

Written By Kima

Oct. 2, 2016, 5:39 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)

To say nothing of the event itself, which was outside of the norm and quite fabulous for it, the competitors which took to the field surprised me somewhat. Some because of who, or what, they were, yet others because of their performance. I think we can all agree that Lady Aria Gilden's masterful show of skill gave everyone a run for their coin.

What pleased me best, however, was the competitions eventual winner. Oh, he tied with Lady Nadia Nightgold at first, and that proud woman is nothing to scoff at, but in the end my brother proved his mettle. Look upon us, Arx: we are the lions of the south.

Written By Pietro

Oct. 2, 2016, 4:48 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)

When I was a boy I used to dream of grand adventures. I suppose I always dream of grand adventures. They still quicken my heart. But whatever I expected from them, this one wasn't it.

The only thing that's right is that I come here with Vincere, following at his heel. He's Count of the March now, and the politics and intrigues of Arx open out before us like an unfamiliar network of roads, where I know he'll never ask for directions. The thing is -- I know his instincts are good, and I'd follow him through any winding road, no matter its pitfalls.

Valkieri and Sylphie has asked us to work for Gemecitta's interests, so I've sent messages to several of the merchants we know -- the ones who do the oil presses for our tithe -- and asked them to spread the word about the renovation project to skilled artisans. Valkieri wants me to stop talking -- what a silly idea! -- but at least I can put my tongue to good use like a proper vassal.

And we're supposed to update our wardrobes, so we don't look provincial, and be prepared for an upcoming gala. No swinging on chandeliers for me.

I wish I had something more exciting to do. I heard there's a training center in town where people can try their luck. Maybe Vincere will go with me. It wouldn't do to let him get rusty with a blade, particularly not here!

Written By Pietro

Oct. 2, 2016, 4:41 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Sylvie

Lady Sylphie Zaffria is our hostess, a vision of taste and aesthetics. She was married to Zacheri. I can't believe he died so young, and not even in glorious combat against a known foe.

She has our full support!

Written By Pietro

Oct. 2, 2016, 4:39 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Valkieri

Lord Valkieri Rubino was our foster brother when our mother sent us from our home in Granato when we were children, and he's only gotten worse as time has gone by. He met us in the city and guided us to the Palazzo Gemecitta, where he and Lady Sylphie Zaffria invited us to stay.

OF COURSE he loves us. Or at least loves to loathe us! Hahah! I'm picturing his scowl as he happens to read this and laughing aloud.

Written By Pietro

Oct. 2, 2016, 4:36 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Vincere

Vincere and I have arrived together in Arx.

He is now the Count of the March, since our mother has retired from her position. Never mind the reasons why.

I know he is up to the task, and anyone who thinks he isn't will have to come through me.

Written By Darren

Oct. 2, 2016, 4:11 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)

When my cousin approached with the desire to host a traditional Northern ritual, I'll admit to some hesitance. These types of things aren't as easily digestable here in the city, particularly right now when things are so tense and uncertain.

But I think she did well, and she was strong in the moment. I was glad to see that my hesitance and concern for adversity did not bear fruit - the people in attendance were a diverse group, but while there were questions, everyone was respectful.

I'm sure there will be many more questions to come as news of the ritual spreads through the city, but I believe Freja is perfectly capable of handling them with grace and strength.

Written By Esera

Oct. 2, 2016, 3:49 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)

I grew up in Lenosia, in the City-State of Gardens. They say, in Lenosia, you may find any flower. The merchants bring them from afar, bring them as sprouts and bring them as bulbs. Among these flowers, some are long forgotten -- things of beauty, lost to time. Many others are named and known. If I am to be called the Archduchess of Flowers, I thought, perhaps, I might write about a few.

Fox Creep - An ivy with dusty purple flowers, dizzyingly sweet. They grow up the walls of my palace in Lenosia, and now they grow up the walls of my throne room in Arx, too. Careful you do not breathe too deeply of them, lest your head spin, and your heart warm -- they are intoxicating, a beautiful aphrodisiac.

Ardent Whisp - A bright yellow blossom made of a thousand tiny petals, it is rarely seen outside Sanctum. Yet, in recent years, some say they have seen it in Lenosia, little flashes of yellow that grow just outside the Palace. I wonder whose mischief this is?

Luminance - A pure white flower. Light-devouring, it shines gold under sunlight, ghostly silver under moonlight. You may never see one, never find one. Perhaps somewhere, in some lost corner of Lenosia, you will catch one blooming. Perhaps, more likely, they do not exist at all -- just a story told to young Lenosian ladies, who go 'chasing Luminance' in the dark of night.

Written By Barric

Oct. 2, 2016, 3:10 p.m.(9/24/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Donella

I met Princess Donella Thrax at the inn within the Thrax district. A rough and rumble place, but she softened the decor with her lovely presence. She is clearly a capable woman judging by her position as Voice do her grandfather, Prince Donrai. It is an intimidating family to say the least but she we very personable and pleasant to be around. It is important to have connections to the other houses, at least on a social level, and I believe she likely agrees with me on that.

Written By Aurora

Oct. 2, 2016, 1:28 p.m.(9/24/1004 AR)

My time with the Mummers has taught me a great many things, some more valuable than others.

Everyone is a critic. Whether you perform for them or not, they will judge you by assumptions. They will pick apart words, gestures, the things not said, and you will be held accountable for them. Stop caring. Don't read your own reviews because it is always those unhappy with events that tend to be the loudest. Be secure with your own merits, talents, and have enough self-confidence to know that where one person may deny you there are ten more who rely on you.

I have promised someone who holds my best interest at heart to take a vacation after the gala, and I am considering it. I need to work on my flaws, and I can not do that locked away in a workroom. Who am I kidding, I'd bring work with me. Maybe instead of vacation, it will be a night off. I can deal with a night off. One night won't kill me?

Written By Joscelin

Oct. 2, 2016, 12:48 p.m.(9/24/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Donella

I forgot to mention, I met Lady Donella the other day. Officially, I mean.

We have a great deal in common. More than I expected. I hope I live up to her expectations.

Written By Edain

Oct. 2, 2016, 12:33 p.m.(9/24/1004 AR)

I was very encouraged by how well the 'Command Course Competition' that Princess Alis and myself hosted turned out. There was not a bad performance among the lot. Even those that did not complete course, did so with a certain panache, as the came up short because they had pushed themselves to try and score a better time. The eventual victor was Lord Eos Saik a man that continues to be exactly what I expect, and yet, completely different from what I assume of knight of the Lyceum. He was victorious showing some impressive veteran instincts.

The Duchess Nadia Nightgold was just as impressive only gave up victory to Lord Saik in a tie breaker run of the course that could not have been any closer. It really lifted my heart to see so many people tackle the challenge not just with skill but creativity. It made me feel better about our future. I mean yes it was mostly a silly game, but seeing the way everyone rose to the occasion, each in their own unique ways, it made me feel hope for how we will navigate the challenges on the horizon for us all.

I needed that, badly. My heart has been heavy this past week, hell my heart has been heavy since? well it has been said enough so I won't repeat it here. I can't possibly find and thank everyone that competed or just came to watch and cheer the other night, so if you happen to be browsing the white journals, and you come upon this entry, please know you have my sincerest gratitude.

Written By Edain

Oct. 2, 2016, 12:23 p.m.(9/24/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Isabeau

My cousin, Princess Isabeau must have the strongest pinky fingers in all of the compact. They would have to be with the peerless way she keeps us all wrapped around them. That has to get heavy after awhile. Hyperbole notwithstanding though, I am very glad she came to the City of Arx. The courts are hazardous waters and she swims them as comfortable as? some aquatic creature that is majestic and a good swimmer, like a dolphin or an otter. I hope she will be willing to help our family on the battlefields where the pen will be the greater weapon than the sword.

Written By Sylvie

Oct. 2, 2016, 12:19 p.m.(9/24/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Dagon

Idealistic, kind, but not without a political bent. I will have to remember that about Prince Dagon Thrax. Regardless, I thought I saw some little interest in my cousin, perhaps? And she in him.

Written By Augustus

Oct. 2, 2016, 11:37 a.m.(9/24/1004 AR)

Dear journal. Today I ate porridge.

I doubt anyone would find fault with this entry.

Written By Augustus

Oct. 2, 2016, 11:37 a.m.(9/24/1004 AR)

Dear journal. Today I ate porridge.

I doubt anyone would find fault with this entry.

Written By Sylvie

Oct. 2, 2016, 11:22 a.m.(9/24/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Donella

The Voice of Thrax is not at all what I imagined. She is well-reasoned and thoughtful, and I appreciate that in any lady. I could imagine her doing just as well in the silks of the Lyceum as in a room filled with the stone crosses of the Saffron Chains.

Written By Sylvie

Oct. 2, 2016, 11:16 a.m.(9/24/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Leo

This man's temper may be worse than Lord Valkieri's for less of a reason. I have heard so many good things about Duke Leo Fidante-- His bravery, his honor.

Now I am not surprised I have not heard anything about his intelligence. Child and serf, he may call me, but I name him little better than a bully.

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