Written By Valkieri
Sept. 18, 2016, 8:07 p.m.(8/11/1004 AR)
Arx is -- different.
Some of the nobles I've encountered actually seem to not be playing games at all. Then again, many Lycenes can put up such appearances; in fact, all of the best do. But I have to imagine that some of the other Houses that don't, in fact, worry about being poisoned on a daily basis do actually have other ways of comporting themselves. We wouldn't be on the receiving end of such disdain if that weren't the case.
I have to imagine even the most honorable of the other Great Houses have hands far dirtier than they'd like anyone else to know, however.
*released black journal as stipulated by the will of the deceased*
Some of the nobles I've encountered actually seem to not be playing games at all. Then again, many Lycenes can put up such appearances; in fact, all of the best do. But I have to imagine that some of the other Houses that don't, in fact, worry about being poisoned on a daily basis do actually have other ways of comporting themselves. We wouldn't be on the receiving end of such disdain if that weren't the case.
I have to imagine even the most honorable of the other Great Houses have hands far dirtier than they'd like anyone else to know, however.
*released black journal as stipulated by the will of the deceased*
Written By Talen
Sept. 18, 2016, 7:59 p.m.(8/11/1004 AR)
I hear endless complaints from family, friends and colleagues about the state of my room within the Velenosa Estate. Apparently the countless outfits, numerous trinkets and collection of armour strewn about the place are all an abhorrence to see. The swords and other similar sharp, pointy weapons haphazardly poking out of these small mountains go further and are supposedly not just messy but a danger to life and limb.
Honestly, I like order and tidiness as much as any other person but my room is my domain and the last thing I wish to worry about is spending time cleaning it. I've had others offer to do it for me but truly, it's my junk, my responsibility and everyone else can get their nose out of my business. I don't want anyone else touching it, you see.
Evidently the Grand Duchess has heard of this issue and sent me a rather handsome chest to store many of my belongings in. I'm not sure her grace thought this through, however-- it's just become yet another item in the room, to occupy more space. I've yet to put a single thing within it.
Really, the Archduchess'll thank me someday. When the assassins begin to realise they can't kill her with me around, they'll try to get rid of me. What they'll find, however, is that you can't sneak up on a man surrounded by a cleverly laid system of anti-murderation and an assassin-detection system.
Who knows, they might even trip, fall and impale themselves on Mirror Blade while I'm dreaming about shadowmeld.
Honestly, I like order and tidiness as much as any other person but my room is my domain and the last thing I wish to worry about is spending time cleaning it. I've had others offer to do it for me but truly, it's my junk, my responsibility and everyone else can get their nose out of my business. I don't want anyone else touching it, you see.
Evidently the Grand Duchess has heard of this issue and sent me a rather handsome chest to store many of my belongings in. I'm not sure her grace thought this through, however-- it's just become yet another item in the room, to occupy more space. I've yet to put a single thing within it.
Really, the Archduchess'll thank me someday. When the assassins begin to realise they can't kill her with me around, they'll try to get rid of me. What they'll find, however, is that you can't sneak up on a man surrounded by a cleverly laid system of anti-murderation and an assassin-detection system.
Who knows, they might even trip, fall and impale themselves on Mirror Blade while I'm dreaming about shadowmeld.
Written By Sudara
Sept. 18, 2016, 7:54 p.m.(8/11/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Calain
We have only met the once, and that amidst a hubub of noisy opinions and demands. But he seemed level-headed, even-handed, and thoughtful and even managed to remain unfailingly polite amidst the chaos. In my (severely limited) experience of Arx, I cannot think of a better man to have led the effort to ensure that all was being done for the King in his time of need.
Written By Sudara
Sept. 18, 2016, 7:53 p.m.(8/11/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Jaenelle
It is a challenge, attempting to come up with a suitable description for the princess. 'A cross-bred rose brought to bloom in a new garden' might perhaps make for a good explanation to those who have not met her, though I fear that is more horticultural than flattering. Still: fragrant beauty, flourishing here after being nutured in two very different environments. Certainly, a lovely result that is both natural and also the result of artful efforts by others.
Written By Ophelia
Sept. 18, 2016, 5:22 p.m.(8/11/1004 AR)
Someone once informed me that it was not polite to stare, but there was a man - whose appearance I can't describe aside from him looking like a person - that lured stares like honey lures bears. Is staring okay if everyone else is doing it? He had the kind of mouth which made my fingers twitch. Perhaps its due to a lack of hunting?
... I don't think that rhyme was supposed to be in there, but honey doesn't lure birds. I tried.
... I don't think that rhyme was supposed to be in there, but honey doesn't lure birds. I tried.
Written By Ophelia
Sept. 18, 2016, 5:14 p.m.(8/11/1004 AR)
Dear Diary,
I cannot, in good faith, ever recommend dining on raw boar hearts, even if drizzled in the most fantastic chocolate sauce that one can find. I thought the sauce would've made a difference also, but I am not above admitting when I may be wrong. I can, however, heartily endorse how far a well-timed splatter can reach, if the vessels have been tied just so, and should one have the right amount of cunning to angle it towards someone deserving, the results should logically prove entertaining. Logically.
On another note (or the same note really), Princess Deva proved herself worthy of being so very-very fierce and it was a good reminder of all the reasons her and Luca brilliantly match together. Which reminds me that Prince Darren probably deserves a belated half dozen curtseys, but I may just pay a messenger to begin making up the deficit. That works, I hope?
Yours Truly,
Princess Ophelia Velenosa
P.S. Gifts are good for every occasion.
P.P.S. Napkins are saviors in silken disguise.
I cannot, in good faith, ever recommend dining on raw boar hearts, even if drizzled in the most fantastic chocolate sauce that one can find. I thought the sauce would've made a difference also, but I am not above admitting when I may be wrong. I can, however, heartily endorse how far a well-timed splatter can reach, if the vessels have been tied just so, and should one have the right amount of cunning to angle it towards someone deserving, the results should logically prove entertaining. Logically.
On another note (or the same note really), Princess Deva proved herself worthy of being so very-very fierce and it was a good reminder of all the reasons her and Luca brilliantly match together. Which reminds me that Prince Darren probably deserves a belated half dozen curtseys, but I may just pay a messenger to begin making up the deficit. That works, I hope?
Yours Truly,
Princess Ophelia Velenosa
P.S. Gifts are good for every occasion.
P.P.S. Napkins are saviors in silken disguise.
Written By Dagon
Sept. 18, 2016, 5:14 p.m.(8/11/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Isolde
The Invocation was quite memorable. Your ability to perform the ceremony as well as the blessings should be something all hold in their minds for a long, long time. I have been thinking about what we all prayed for, agreeing with it though I think there are other things to pray for, such as truth as to what happened to the Queen and to all those who were killed, stability is a noble goal.
There are more things that I would like to learn, but you, my dear Princess, know that already.
There are more things that I would like to learn, but you, my dear Princess, know that already.
Written By Orazio
Sept. 18, 2016, 4:54 p.m.(8/11/1004 AR)
To the Faithful Reader:
Although I am anointed as the Voice of the Sentinel, let it not be said that I neglect the rest of the Pantheon. All gods should be venerated in their correct place and time, with no one set above the rest, except perhaps in the hearts of mortals, which do not have the perfect justice of the gods. I say this to provide context to my day's actions. In the morning, I met with a strong-hearted woman, and we walked through the shrines together, speaking of the nature of faith and the gods. This is my duty, although also a pleasure. Before that, I answered messages and judged petitions of disciples and priests, on matters that touched every god's domain. This is also my duty, although I must confess the volumes of paperwork are less of a pleasure. This evening, I agreed to speak to a petitioner who seeks the service of Lagoma, that eternal force of growth, change, and healing. This is also my pleasure, when the work of the Archlector of Lagoma does not permit them to answer such petitions themselves.
My purpose in this recitation is to remind myself that while focus is a virtue, failing to account for the larger context is foolishness. The Sentinel does not stand alone, but rather among the Pantheon. No god rises above the others, and none should be venerated beyond its assigned place in the Pantheon. As it is with the deities, so too it is with events. Do not become overly focused on an individual moment, a singular occurrence. Instead, look wider. Find the truth that lies at the conjunction of events, that which can only be found by examining every available piece of evidence. There, true Justice lies.
Although I am anointed as the Voice of the Sentinel, let it not be said that I neglect the rest of the Pantheon. All gods should be venerated in their correct place and time, with no one set above the rest, except perhaps in the hearts of mortals, which do not have the perfect justice of the gods. I say this to provide context to my day's actions. In the morning, I met with a strong-hearted woman, and we walked through the shrines together, speaking of the nature of faith and the gods. This is my duty, although also a pleasure. Before that, I answered messages and judged petitions of disciples and priests, on matters that touched every god's domain. This is also my duty, although I must confess the volumes of paperwork are less of a pleasure. This evening, I agreed to speak to a petitioner who seeks the service of Lagoma, that eternal force of growth, change, and healing. This is also my pleasure, when the work of the Archlector of Lagoma does not permit them to answer such petitions themselves.
My purpose in this recitation is to remind myself that while focus is a virtue, failing to account for the larger context is foolishness. The Sentinel does not stand alone, but rather among the Pantheon. No god rises above the others, and none should be venerated beyond its assigned place in the Pantheon. As it is with the deities, so too it is with events. Do not become overly focused on an individual moment, a singular occurrence. Instead, look wider. Find the truth that lies at the conjunction of events, that which can only be found by examining every available piece of evidence. There, true Justice lies.
Written By Isolde
Sept. 18, 2016, 3:34 p.m.(8/11/1004 AR)
I find it an important exercise to reexamine first impressions, after I have become acquainted with someone over the course of time. It's important to realize what masks people wear, what assumptions I make, and what, if anything I was wildly incorrect about. I may be vain, but if I cannot admit where I applied too much of personal bias upon a first impression, I'll never improve and navigate the waters of court.
That being said, I am not telling who I was vastly wrong about, nor who I had instantly correct. Some things are better left a mystery, and saved for the Black, don't you think?
That being said, I am not telling who I was vastly wrong about, nor who I had instantly correct. Some things are better left a mystery, and saved for the Black, don't you think?
Written By Edain
Sept. 18, 2016, 3:28 p.m.(8/11/1004 AR)
People hear me talk about my brother's all the time, to the point where I am certain there are some that would wish me to shut up. It occurs to me, that I don't share about my sister Tabitha often, and I would hate for anyone to think that was because she was not an exceptional woman.
While Vance and Valen taught me much about being a knight, it was Tabitha that taught me what it means to be noble. That our birthright is a duty not a blessing. That we have to protect those we rule, and that means caring for them, not just drawing steel, stabbing things and then disappearing into our fortress again.
She was the one who father always entrusted to represent him in court, because she waded into those hostile waters with grace and resolve in both overwhelming measure. I remember once asking her how she did it, because it seemed so much more intimidating than a battlefield. She laughed at me and said, "In court everyone is going to lie, manipulate and betray in order to get what they want. Once you realize, that, you realize there is never any reason to do anything other than what you know to be right."
Gods, I miss her.
While Vance and Valen taught me much about being a knight, it was Tabitha that taught me what it means to be noble. That our birthright is a duty not a blessing. That we have to protect those we rule, and that means caring for them, not just drawing steel, stabbing things and then disappearing into our fortress again.
She was the one who father always entrusted to represent him in court, because she waded into those hostile waters with grace and resolve in both overwhelming measure. I remember once asking her how she did it, because it seemed so much more intimidating than a battlefield. She laughed at me and said, "In court everyone is going to lie, manipulate and betray in order to get what they want. Once you realize, that, you realize there is never any reason to do anything other than what you know to be right."
Gods, I miss her.
Written By Edain
Sept. 18, 2016, 3:15 p.m.(8/11/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Deva
I expected to have very little in common with Princess Deva when we first met. But we quickly bonded over a love of horses. And since then, I have learned she is an excellent archer, skilled and wielding heavy slabs of metal attached to a long pole. She lives her life with a passion and zeal that it is very hard not to envy. That free spirit, does not come at the cost of her devotion and duty to her family. I hope that we can see better relations between our peoples in the future.
Written By Aurora
Sept. 18, 2016, 7:28 a.m.(8/10/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Hammar
Hammar is a simple minded sweetheart. He could easily crush my skull with a bare hand should he choose to, and yet his touch s gentle. I am not sure why he has a fascination with my hair, or it's color, but he seems to enjoy patting me on the head so why not let him. There are very few people in the city that don't have their own agenda, but Hammar is certainly one of them, it makes me almost jealous that he can keep his wonderment in life. I do try so hard to see the beauty in all things, but he does it effortlessly. I am going to make him clothing, he deserves nice things.
Written By Aurora
Sept. 18, 2016, 7:22 a.m.(8/10/1004 AR)
The Crafter's Guild is something that, while I certainly am a part of, I have not really spent much time focusing on. I do what I am good at for people, and that is that. Perhaps with the new leader, though I certainly have no idea who she is nor submitted her name for the position, I might become more involved. It does worry me that I do not know her, but I should fix that I suppose when I am not busy. We shall see what becomes of this, I can only imagine it is a thankless job for highly emotional artistic types.
Written By Kima
Sept. 18, 2016, 2:57 a.m.(8/9/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Darren
Though this entry is late in coming, I should like it noted that it is only because I required adequate time to truly refine my appreciation for that glorious man, Prince Darren Redrain.
We first met, if only informally, upon the field of the melee hosted by Lady Dawn. I became so enchanted with him that I did the only thing I could: I mercilessly whacked the shit out of him with my sword.
What? Are you never overcome with urges so strong that you can do naught but revert to childish antics? Ah, but I suppose not. To continue:
Darren Redrain is the refined version of his younger brother, sporting a magnificent coif of red locks and excellent good looks.
What do you mean is that all I care about?
What else is there to care about, that's what I'd like to know. Well, actually, I can think of a few things, but I'll save those for the other journal. No need to have you whinging on about a new grey hair. Which I've yet to find, mind you. Yes, write that down, too. I've no fear and neither should you!
DARREN REDRAIN.
I drank with him, and do you know, I believe he came away knowing more of me than I of him. I really should remedy that.
We first met, if only informally, upon the field of the melee hosted by Lady Dawn. I became so enchanted with him that I did the only thing I could: I mercilessly whacked the shit out of him with my sword.
What? Are you never overcome with urges so strong that you can do naught but revert to childish antics? Ah, but I suppose not. To continue:
Darren Redrain is the refined version of his younger brother, sporting a magnificent coif of red locks and excellent good looks.
What do you mean is that all I care about?
What else is there to care about, that's what I'd like to know. Well, actually, I can think of a few things, but I'll save those for the other journal. No need to have you whinging on about a new grey hair. Which I've yet to find, mind you. Yes, write that down, too. I've no fear and neither should you!
DARREN REDRAIN.
I drank with him, and do you know, I believe he came away knowing more of me than I of him. I really should remedy that.
Written By Kima
Sept. 18, 2016, 2:35 a.m.(8/9/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Orazio
Archlector Orazio was once more commonly known as Orazio Saik. He was my uncle until he took his vows. As a young girl, I confess that I felt some slight resentment for the perceived abandonment of the family. In my childhood, he was a man that always had time for myself and my brother, was as quick with a joke as he was a sword. He was, I won't deny it, like a hero to me.
I understand it now, of course. Now better than ever. The courage and conviction he displayed when trading his blade for the amulet of Sentinel; the honor and dedication to a cause all should strive to uphold.
What I am saying is that the Archlector Orazio is still a hero to me.
I understand it now, of course. Now better than ever. The courage and conviction he displayed when trading his blade for the amulet of Sentinel; the honor and dedication to a cause all should strive to uphold.
What I am saying is that the Archlector Orazio is still a hero to me.
Written By Eos
Sept. 17, 2016, 11:39 p.m.(8/9/1004 AR)
Some days, I wish that I associated only with soldiers. Soldiers have no choice but to take advisement. I would go so far as to say that soldiers have no choice but to take order. There is no end to the frustration of those counted close, bestowed with entirely free will and no obligation, in the glimpses of the threats they choose to dance with alone. They are coming up like weeds, those who would be wholly intent on imparting just enough to seed worry, but nothing with which I could actually provide aid by if it was needed. In most cases, they would be far beyond help by the time I learned anything had gone amiss at all.
What motivates this? Why say anything at all, if it is already known to them that they will accept no help, and will provide no more than phantoms to blame should something befall them? I did not take up a knighthood to be told by those with gentler hands than mine that they must protect me in the same breaths they speak of their own fears, of their impending dangerous endeavors. Maybe I've fallen under a curse, or maybe it is only the way of things in Arx. Maybe this is why whiskey seems so much more popular than wine in this city. I am certainly finding the wine lacking with each new instance of this scenario these past two weeks.
What motivates this? Why say anything at all, if it is already known to them that they will accept no help, and will provide no more than phantoms to blame should something befall them? I did not take up a knighthood to be told by those with gentler hands than mine that they must protect me in the same breaths they speak of their own fears, of their impending dangerous endeavors. Maybe I've fallen under a curse, or maybe it is only the way of things in Arx. Maybe this is why whiskey seems so much more popular than wine in this city. I am certainly finding the wine lacking with each new instance of this scenario these past two weeks.
Written By Barric
Sept. 17, 2016, 11:10 p.m.(8/9/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Deva
The Voice of Redrain, and a victim of my mighty fists! Granted, I think I got lucky. It was a Redrain party, even if it was mid morning, and of course every Redrain party must involve a brawling after a suitable quantity of alcohol has been imbibed. Princess Deva is an interesting woman and seems to dislike politics and enjoy being out of the city as much as I do. I've made her promise to arrange a hunt and invite me and I intend to hold her to it. It will be good to track prey and see what we can hunt down.
Written By Isolde
Sept. 17, 2016, 10:09 p.m.(8/8/1004 AR)
Well, wasn't I the busy little be these past few days.
The Velenosa dinner was delightful, fantastic company, even if I was a bit of a flurry of introductions and didn't spend time with anyone as much as I should have. I should have something nice commissioned for Prince Darren. He was kind and kept me entertained at the least. So many new faces! And many new faces I will have to get to know better, I think. Definitely.
The Invocation was far more successful than I anticipated. I'm pleased so many asked for blessings, and seemed responsive to the rituals. The Pantheon is a beautiful thing. I always find a touch of drama lends itself well to keeping their greatness in the minds of the Faithful. I'll have to speak with the Dominus to discuss what our next move is.
And oh... the North. How delightful the North is. I don't understand them nearly as well as I should, but they -are- entertaining. And Prince Barric showed up! I still have his shirt. Don't tell anyone. I'm undecided if I shall keep it, hold it ransom, or submit it to the Art Gallery. It is a rather fine shirt. But the fighting was exciting, and that Prodigal sort that seems besotted with Lady Dawn won. He seemed shocked I'd actually make good on my bet, but, Prince Darren is a formidible man. The winnings were well deserved.
I feel fairly accomplished this week, though I am looking forward to peace, quiet, and smaller gatherings, private conversations, and all the situations I thrive in. If that shy girl I used to be lingered, I'd hide away for a month. Perhaps I am spoiled, but I do not take it for granted that I earn the invitations I do.
The Velenosa dinner was delightful, fantastic company, even if I was a bit of a flurry of introductions and didn't spend time with anyone as much as I should have. I should have something nice commissioned for Prince Darren. He was kind and kept me entertained at the least. So many new faces! And many new faces I will have to get to know better, I think. Definitely.
The Invocation was far more successful than I anticipated. I'm pleased so many asked for blessings, and seemed responsive to the rituals. The Pantheon is a beautiful thing. I always find a touch of drama lends itself well to keeping their greatness in the minds of the Faithful. I'll have to speak with the Dominus to discuss what our next move is.
And oh... the North. How delightful the North is. I don't understand them nearly as well as I should, but they -are- entertaining. And Prince Barric showed up! I still have his shirt. Don't tell anyone. I'm undecided if I shall keep it, hold it ransom, or submit it to the Art Gallery. It is a rather fine shirt. But the fighting was exciting, and that Prodigal sort that seems besotted with Lady Dawn won. He seemed shocked I'd actually make good on my bet, but, Prince Darren is a formidible man. The winnings were well deserved.
I feel fairly accomplished this week, though I am looking forward to peace, quiet, and smaller gatherings, private conversations, and all the situations I thrive in. If that shy girl I used to be lingered, I'd hide away for a month. Perhaps I am spoiled, but I do not take it for granted that I earn the invitations I do.
Written By Darren
Sept. 17, 2016, 9:04 p.m.(8/8/1004 AR)
The brunch brawl was a glorious success. There were people from almost all Houses in attendance, and there was much drink and food to be had. Most importantly, there were quite a few contenders for the brawl. Many punches were thrown, and while I didn't end up being the last man standing, I got quite a few hits into the giant protector of Lady Dawn. Can't be too upset about my ability to go toe-to-toe with a man like that, who so easily wiped the floor of the remaining opponents once I was down for the count.
Of course, I took note of who was there. Among them being Princess Donella Thrax, Princess Isolde Velenosa, and Lady Dawn. No one from the Valardian House though, notably. But maybe they just don't like whiskey and fighting. That's just unfortunate for them, though.
Of course, I took note of who was there. Among them being Princess Donella Thrax, Princess Isolde Velenosa, and Lady Dawn. No one from the Valardian House though, notably. But maybe they just don't like whiskey and fighting. That's just unfortunate for them, though.
Written By Darren
Sept. 17, 2016, 8:35 p.m.(8/8/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Isolde
There is quite a lot one could say about Princess Isolde. A better man would wax poetic - but I'm fairly sure there've been plenty of songs and poems written on her behalf. I may be quite the storyteller, especially when boasting about my many feats, but poetry and songs were never my forte.
So instead, I will simply say this: Princess Isolde carries with her a strength that you don't find in many Southern women. It's undeniably impressive, and I look forward to each and every meeting I have with her. I am not quite sure if I can call her yet a close friend, but at the very least, I am enjoying having someone to go on adventures with. Even if one of those adventures is to a secret room behind a secret door that doesn't actually exist.
So instead, I will simply say this: Princess Isolde carries with her a strength that you don't find in many Southern women. It's undeniably impressive, and I look forward to each and every meeting I have with her. I am not quite sure if I can call her yet a close friend, but at the very least, I am enjoying having someone to go on adventures with. Even if one of those adventures is to a secret room behind a secret door that doesn't actually exist.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.