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Written By Freja

Aug. 7, 2016, 4:29 p.m.(3/25/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Gareth

A man with something to prove. It makes one wonder if his sword is as sharp as his tongue, or if that is the category found faulty. Either way, he has prying eyes and mannerisms to fit. A prince perfectly fit for the role of inquisitor.

Written By Ailith

Aug. 7, 2016, 3:50 p.m.(3/25/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Gareth

I have to wonder, was Prince Gareth so confrontational prior to his horrible captivity? He makes the most basic attempts to be polite only to then shatter them through seemingly trying his best to seek confrontation. Why? It almost feels as if he looking to give people reasons not to help him.

Written By Ida

Aug. 7, 2016, 1:19 p.m.(3/25/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Acacia

Mistress Acacia is someone Prince Edain mentioned my work to and we ended up crossing paths at a couple of events I didn't avoid. She's an exceptionally pleasant woman and I honestly enjoy her company. She's quite good at engaging people, I've noticed, and can navigate socially far better than I think I ever will. It seems genuine, though, which maybe makes me naive, but I suppose I don't care if it does or doesn't. Her compliments of my work are beyond flattering and she's purchased from the shop as well as commissioned something personally. She talks my wares up to other people, which has no doubt lead to work I might not otherwise have received. I'm very glad to have met someone like her here in Arx.

Written By Malorie

Aug. 7, 2016, 1:17 p.m.(3/25/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Alarissa

I finally became acquainted with Princess Alarissa, and she's something altogether different than I expected. Strong, vibrant, and determined; far from the wilting flower one might expect of such a young widow. Her self-confidence is to be admired, and I look forward to getting to know her while she remains a Valardin.

Written By Ida

Aug. 7, 2016, 1:08 p.m.(3/25/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Fergus

Prince Fergus Redrain. The man seems to carry a great deal of haunted history on his shoulders, which often is visible even in his eyes. It's one of those things I wasn't sure I wanted to poke about, even if I was curious. I mean, there are the stories, of course, but stories are what other people say about something or someone. Better from the mouth of the person talked about, right? In any case, between doing commissions for him and crossing paths here and there in the city and my shop, I think we have a comfortable friendship that I rather enjoy.

Written By Malorie

Aug. 7, 2016, 11:22 a.m.(3/25/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Fatima

Princess Fatima was lured to the Valardin stables by the promise of seeing baby foals, and for that I am glad. She's got something about her that simply draws you in; it's no wonder that the least friendly of the little ones warmed to her and only her. She came by to visit again, and we spoke for a time about the expectations of women and I was quickly impressed by her quiet determination to honor her family in deed and word. We've plans to hold a tea party together soon, and I look forward to getting to know her better in days to come.

Written By Niccolo

Aug. 7, 2016, 1:24 a.m.(3/23/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Jacinthe

Mistress Jacinthe Whisper approached me asking to speak to me about an event the Whisper House will hold honoring known heroes. She wanted to speak to me about my late wife. I was both surprised and impressed by the empathy displayed by this young woman, and the conversation went well. Going forward, she could become a useful contact within the Whisper House.

Written By Niccolo

Aug. 7, 2016, 1:21 a.m.(3/23/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Enzo

Master Enzo is a jeweler of notable skill. He's taken care of at least one commission for me, and I was quite pleased with the work. He's asked me to become his patron and after some consideration, I agreed to it. Our business relationship is very clear, in return for my support and the occasional financial assistance if need be, he gives me priority in my orders that I place with him.

Written By Niccolo

Aug. 7, 2016, 1:19 a.m.(3/23/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Gareth

What can I say about Prince Gareth Grayson? The man is either a genius, or an idiot and to be fair I'm not sure which it is. He thinks very high of himself, his position as Inquisitor, and House Grayson. Confidence in a man is a trait I certainly admire and respect, but what I can't condone is his complete and utter understanding of proper noble behavior. There is a distinct lack of dignity in how he treats his peers, and it's a shame, because it is really unnecessary. With a few adjustments, Prince Gareth could be a great man, unfortunately he might end remembered more for being a bitter one.

Written By Niccolo

Aug. 7, 2016, 1:13 a.m.(3/23/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Freja

I've yet to get to know the princess, but the few times we've crossed paths have been memorable. She's shown kindness to my protege, Acacia, something I certainly appreciate. She's spoke up when someone sought to disrespect me in her home, and in doing so spared me the having to deal with it myself. I would like to get to know her, understand her. She could be a great ally to have in House Redrain.

Written By Acacia

Aug. 7, 2016, 1:01 a.m.(3/23/1004 AR)

Memories of House Redrain's Northern Feast is a bit of a blur to me, but undoubtedly noteworthy. It was an evening of unlikely Silks and high-stakes dancing, far-off stories and pilfered whiskey, numerous spiders and dangerous gifts, ever-watching Hoods and sailor-quantities of rum, misspoken titles and secretive messengers.

The noble presence was resplendent as ever. The Redrain Hosts took their duties to the fullest, with stoked fires both warm and fierce and entertainment always present by wager or whiskey. The Velenosan entourage were eye-catching both in their distinct fashion and individual characters, with perhaps the highlight of the evening being that dangerously intense dance between the Grand Duchess and the Sword of Lenosia. Courtesan Jacinthe Whisper honored those of her particular art and I imagine in the future, she'll be a frequent companion upon the arms of the elite.

I always relish the lounge when I return to my true home, nestled in the oft-forgotten darkness of the city, but even people like me can enjoy a night out. Plus, really, that was a lot of free alcohol provided over bear-skin rugs and roasted boars. That deserves a significant call out.

Written By Acacia

Aug. 6, 2016, 9:39 p.m.(3/23/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Alistair

I wonder sometimes if Inquisitor Alistair and I would've been friends were he not... well, an Inquisitor. Or if when he spoke of glass bottles and forgotten messages if it would've just ended with us brawling in a back alley somewhere. I appreciate his dry humor when it shines through and isn't quite to the level of 'This isn't humor, but me thinking of all the ways to undo you'. Granted, that's probably a rare thing. There's questions sometimes that I want to ask him, provoked by a testament of life worn on his skin. But there's now an undeniable separation between the worlds which stands out as starkly as the color of his robes.

Written By Chanse

Aug. 6, 2016, 6:51 p.m.(3/23/1004 AR)

Relationship Note on Nekarris

Anyone that's lived in the Lower Boroughs has met the type at least once- a flighty, silly fucking noblewoman looking for a thrill by meeting the dangerous individuals that would never, ever be welcomed to polite social functions of the nobility. The Countess of Darkwater is exactly the type; you can see it in how she smiles and the questions she asks. Sooner or later she'll see something real that reminds her it's not just for fun, and flit off back to the safe walls of her noble house.

Written By Malorie

Aug. 6, 2016, 11:15 a.m.(3/22/1004 AR)

The showing was a complete success, I couldn't possibly be more proud. The foals were by and large on their best behavior, though there was one little beauty that decided to take a bite out of someone's thigh and subsequently found herself unselected. There is a rider for every horse, and I am confident she'll find the person meant to lead her with time. I thought I might write down a few notes here for posterity, instead of having to shift through stacks of registration paperwork.

Duke Niccolo Velenosa named his black foal 'Dauntless', and considering the spirit displayed by the little stallion in the making, I think it is an apt moniker indeed.
Prince Dagon Thrax also selected a black foal and opted against gelding, naming the tiny stallion 'Trouble' which means he at least knows what he is in for with that wildling.
Princess Fatima Thrax opted for one of the most beautifully colored foals, her coat comparable to exotic sands, and fittingly her name was selected from the Eurusi tongue, 'Zahara'.
Princess Ophelia Velenosa opted for a little buckskin with the gravitas of a much older horse, I think they will complement one another beautifully. The name she chose was 'Count Death (Badger)' which I'm certain has a story behind it, I should ask.
Prince Fergus Redrain was chosen by a black and white paint foal, aptly named 'Blackjack', and the two of them with their quiet strength should get along nicely.
Lady Nadia Nightgold chose my absolute favorite, the stark white foal of my own mare. She's named him 'Mystery', and with his penchant for drama, I expect he'll live up to the name perfectly.
Miss Jacinthe Whisper lived up to expectations of entertainment when she named her handsome bay foal 'Virtue', the play on words was outstanding.
Sir Silas picked a steel gray foal that will serve as his warhorse, and though he hasn't yet decided whether or not to geld, the horse he's named 'Damascus' will serve him well.
Lady Aislin Ashford came looking for a southern horse, and while other houses produce breeds of merit, you won't find them at the Valardin stables. She selected a dainty white foal, giving her a placeholder name of 'Hwit', but doesn't seem to have quite committed to the sale.

All in all, it was a brilliant opportunity to meet those interested in equestrian pursuits, whether it be simply riding or training the horses for show, and I can't wait to see how things progress this year.

**A note is added at the bottom**
We'll call the biter Galley. Perhaps that will sway Princess Donella.

Written By Silas

Aug. 6, 2016, 2:14 a.m.(3/20/1004 AR)

I am the proud owner of a steel gray foal, who will be raised as my next warhorse. My current steed, Theodore, has served me well - but he is older than I am. He is in relative good health but I'm not sure I want to lose him on the battlefield; though I have seen very few of those in my lifetime.

I have named him Damascus. I think it suits him.

Written By Jacinthe

Aug. 5, 2016, 9:51 p.m.(3/20/1004 AR)

I am now the proud owner of a two week old foal. He is rather brownish with a pretty black mane and tail, and I've decided to name him Virtue, so that when I finally learn how to ride, and he finally ages to maturity, and I finally sit in his saddle, all may say, "Here comes Jacinthe, who has been carried here by her singular Virtue."

If he throws me, I shall be the Whisper who was undone by Virtue.

That was much funnier in my head than sitting before me now in ink. But for now, I'll congratulate myself for thinking ahead, on the compliments, jokes and puns that will be made about my person down the road. It's important to plan for one's future.

The Valardin do breed fine horses. When Virtue is finally unveiled in his ultimate rideable form, I do hope he's impressive enough to balance the tally of two years of board and training. Clever, clever Valardin.


Written By Kima

Aug. 5, 2016, 8:52 p.m.(3/20/1004 AR)

A bit disappointed I wasn't able to attend the Valardin stable showing today. It's not that I had a burning need to buy a horse, but I should have liked to see the little foals all the same. Oh well! It is not as if there won't be any more of these to happen.

Written By Nekarris

Aug. 5, 2016, 8:50 p.m.(3/20/1004 AR)

((SCHOLARS NOTE- WILL OF THE DECEASED STIPULATED RELEASE OF HER BLACK REFLECTIONS))

**This page of the journal is full of doodles. In the center, a skull with hearts for eyes, and the name Nekarris Thex written in fancy, flowing cursive. The periphery of the page is all doodles of hearts and spiders**

Written By Isolde

Aug. 5, 2016, 8:25 p.m.(3/20/1004 AR)

It's really too bad I had to miss most of Princess Deva's feast. It looked fantastic, the bit I could attend, but... well, it would have been a terrible diplomatic incident, since the Nightgold woman was there. I am certain she hopes I have forgotten her insult to me. Especially since she hasn't made any overtures to regain my respect. Even Papa is giving her the cold shoulder for me. At least Princess Deva understands that I am not cross with the Redrains. Only her.

Written By Jacinthe

Aug. 5, 2016, 10:19 a.m.(3/19/1004 AR)

I attended a feast held by House Redrain and it was everything one might hope of an event sponsored by them. The roasting boar, the flowing spirits, the game attempt by certain of the guests to spark a brawl...

I had rather hoped that the wrestling pit would see more use, as there are few greater joys in life than watching liquored participants scrambling about half-naked in physical pursuits for the pleasure of the masses, but one can't have everything. The dancing was still a joy to watch and the company was exquisite. Of course, now I have to erect some elaborate scheme to betray and destroy Duke Vercyn in a manner that satisfies the man but a Whisper's work is never done and one does enjoy a challenge.

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