Written By Gerry
July 30, 2016, 6:15 p.m.(3/2/1004 AR)
I won the archery competition at the Golden Decathlon Tournament. They cheered me, and the nobles praised me, and the Princess Alarissa Grayson, may the Gods protect her, gave me a trophy out of pure gold to show for it. I'll treasure it always.
Written By Gerry
July 30, 2016, 6:14 p.m.(3/2/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Talen
As good as a noble by how he dresses and the company he keeps. He spoke to me at the archery competition, there at the finals. Gave me some advise. I've never been one for the big crowds, myself. Asked about me, too. Perhaps he'll be coming to get some business at my store. If not, well, I have no desire to be embroiled with them nobles. I'm just an honest member of the Crafters Guild, I am.
Written By Victus
July 30, 2016, 6:09 p.m.(3/1/1004 AR)
So I'm the Grand Champion of the Decathlon.
Got a pretty fucking trophy to show for it. Four, actually. Three outta gold and the grand one outta iridescite. Not much of a fucking judge of art, but I'm guessing this was more about the value of the material than the skill of the craftmanship. Not sure what I'm gonna do with them. Put them on a shelf somewhere, I guess. I suppose it'd be fucking rude to melt 'em down for the coin. If my House didn't put coin into my account every fucking week, I probably would've. A man gotta eat (and pay for courtesans).
It took being beat up by fucking Alrec in the wrestling. Got him wobbly as fuck, which is more than Talen did in the finals. Heh. But still, I fell. Don't even recall waking up staring at the ceiling, but there I was.
Took out Fergus before I lost to Viviana in the Semi-Finals of the Single Combat event. Don't even want to think about that shit.
Beat Silas by default on the Joust, or I'd never gotten far enough to be out done by Talen in the semi-finals. At least I didn't get knocked off my horse. At least I hit him rather than make a complete fool out of myself. Though, to be fair, jousting makes a fool out of everybody whose stupid enough to think it some great fucking art.
Then the first day of the main events, I was outswum by both Gustave and Viviana. Can you believe that shit? Me? I grew up swimming. At least I took both the sailing events. That fucker Talen should've never been allowed to take control of a vessel, by the way. Utterly fucking disgusting.
Second day, I won the discus, lost the two running events. Guess I ain't much of a runner.
And third, heh. I was going to do the archery, but to complete my ten out of ten events. But fuck it. The ale I was drinking at the time was good, and I didn't see the point all of a sudden. So I slept in instead. It didn't matter, though. Those 3 single event victories won me the day in absentia. So was it worth the effort, and the losses, and the fucking blood shed? Not at all.
But it was a challenge. Something new. Seemed small somehow to pass it over just because I might lose. And I did lose, quite a bit. But when its just a fucking game, who cares? My pride ain't worth that much.
Seriously, though, how much does some melted down iridescite go for these days?
Got a pretty fucking trophy to show for it. Four, actually. Three outta gold and the grand one outta iridescite. Not much of a fucking judge of art, but I'm guessing this was more about the value of the material than the skill of the craftmanship. Not sure what I'm gonna do with them. Put them on a shelf somewhere, I guess. I suppose it'd be fucking rude to melt 'em down for the coin. If my House didn't put coin into my account every fucking week, I probably would've. A man gotta eat (and pay for courtesans).
It took being beat up by fucking Alrec in the wrestling. Got him wobbly as fuck, which is more than Talen did in the finals. Heh. But still, I fell. Don't even recall waking up staring at the ceiling, but there I was.
Took out Fergus before I lost to Viviana in the Semi-Finals of the Single Combat event. Don't even want to think about that shit.
Beat Silas by default on the Joust, or I'd never gotten far enough to be out done by Talen in the semi-finals. At least I didn't get knocked off my horse. At least I hit him rather than make a complete fool out of myself. Though, to be fair, jousting makes a fool out of everybody whose stupid enough to think it some great fucking art.
Then the first day of the main events, I was outswum by both Gustave and Viviana. Can you believe that shit? Me? I grew up swimming. At least I took both the sailing events. That fucker Talen should've never been allowed to take control of a vessel, by the way. Utterly fucking disgusting.
Second day, I won the discus, lost the two running events. Guess I ain't much of a runner.
And third, heh. I was going to do the archery, but to complete my ten out of ten events. But fuck it. The ale I was drinking at the time was good, and I didn't see the point all of a sudden. So I slept in instead. It didn't matter, though. Those 3 single event victories won me the day in absentia. So was it worth the effort, and the losses, and the fucking blood shed? Not at all.
But it was a challenge. Something new. Seemed small somehow to pass it over just because I might lose. And I did lose, quite a bit. But when its just a fucking game, who cares? My pride ain't worth that much.
Seriously, though, how much does some melted down iridescite go for these days?
Written By Victus
July 30, 2016, 5:56 p.m.(3/1/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Gustave
Frankly, I aught to have been the better swimmer. I've been swimming since before I knew how to fucking walk. Then comes this giant and outshines me. What the fuck does some hill boy know about swimming, anyway? He's a better runner than me, too. Not that I was ever that great of a runner, but still. I figured I had a chance at least, but I didn't.
At least I'm better at throwing things. Guess the only time that matters if you're stuck in a siege and they're coming up the walls. And if you're in that position you're already fucked most of the time.
Then again, once you really have to start running or swimming you're usually fucked, too.
At least I'm better at throwing things. Guess the only time that matters if you're stuck in a siege and they're coming up the walls. And if you're in that position you're already fucked most of the time.
Then again, once you really have to start running or swimming you're usually fucked, too.
Written By Victus
July 30, 2016, 5:50 p.m.(3/1/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Arn
You ever read the Valor of Steel by.. fuck, I can't remember the name. T something, I think. No? No, no, if you wanna look it up you can do it on your own time. Anyway. Its a book about some of the great contemporary commanders of Valardin, and chief among them is Arn Telmar. It gives some brief biographies and then lists some of their most notable battles. I'll admit I glossed over most of it. What can I say, I'm not much of a reader.
One sequence did stick with me, though. It describes Arn in his shining fucking armor, leading his cavalry in a great and glorious charge at the Battle of the Horn, and in one glorious heroic swoop winning the day. So when I sat down to have a drink with the fellow, I had to ask him about it.
I liked his version better.
One sequence did stick with me, though. It describes Arn in his shining fucking armor, leading his cavalry in a great and glorious charge at the Battle of the Horn, and in one glorious heroic swoop winning the day. So when I sat down to have a drink with the fellow, I had to ask him about it.
I liked his version better.
Written By Arn
July 30, 2016, 11:26 a.m.(3/1/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Edain
Honorable Prince
Written By Rohkir
July 30, 2016, 4:35 a.m.(2/28/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Lydia
Duchess Nadia's sister has a certain...fragility to her nature. It makes her sweet, coddled naturally. It's as if you've every instinctual urge to want to stand over her or make it so her feet hardly have to touch the ground. It makes her terribly endearing in everything she does. Many people, all they want is to feel needed. She's quite adept at settling that urge. It doesn't hurt that she's a pretty gal.
Written By Rohkir
July 30, 2016, 4:31 a.m.(2/28/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Fergus
My cousin is a cold man, in many ways. He doesn't connect well with people, or simply chooses not to. He has his moments of bright eyed easiness, though usually that's when he's too drunk to remember the past. I love him; he's my family. I just wish he'd relax some. We're going to get those bastards, whoever they are. Sooner, or later.
Written By Acacia
July 30, 2016, 1:32 a.m.(2/27/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Alarie
Thraxian Seamstress Alarie Harall is brilliant in a way few people are. That isn't merely a testament to her skills and the masterful way she manipulates silk as she affably converses. She's simply pleasant to be in the company of. Conversation flows naturally with her and she's proven herself to be remarkably expedient on top of it. Arx attracts many artisans and there will forever be competition among them, but her quality, of both person and goods, remains top notch.
Written By Kima
July 29, 2016, 10:22 p.m.(2/27/1004 AR)
Truth be told, I would have preferred to stay in bed on the Decathlon's first day - I knew I'd not be attending any of the other event's due to prior engagements. Yet how could I not stand and show support for my friends? I am most sure Victus in particular would have been crushed had I not been there.
While he couldn't overtake the Marquis Searam in the first event, Victus won handily the second two - as well he should. Sailing is, after all, something he should know a thing or two about.
The Sword of Lenosia...
Masterfully done, mister Artiglio, masterfully done.
One other item of note: Marcas. Yes, yes, the man came dead last in the swimming competition, but I don't think many people there could appreciate that he was swimming at all. They didn't see him knock back those drinks and cheese like I had!
While he couldn't overtake the Marquis Searam in the first event, Victus won handily the second two - as well he should. Sailing is, after all, something he should know a thing or two about.
The Sword of Lenosia...
Masterfully done, mister Artiglio, masterfully done.
One other item of note: Marcas. Yes, yes, the man came dead last in the swimming competition, but I don't think many people there could appreciate that he was swimming at all. They didn't see him knock back those drinks and cheese like I had!
Written By Hammar
July 29, 2016, 8:32 p.m.(2/27/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Arn
After a run in with Victus at a tournament, Hammar found out Duke Arn is not his father. Hammar still wants to talk to the Duke and get to know him better, but he is a bit sad that after their first meeting in the City center when Arn asked him about his armor, that the man is not actually his father. He still doesn't know why Arn called him son, though!
Written By Alrec
July 29, 2016, 7:37 p.m.(2/27/1004 AR)
Gloria was on my side, at least where it matters for me. During the fight, I suppose I lost my temper and perhaps that wasn't a good display considering I was fighting for the honor of Princess Jaenelle. Never the less, I beat the Sword, Talen with a knock out. There was something about his motion that reminded me of Southport, still I can't put a finger on it. Especially why it was so familiar. The sand in the eye, shit, I should have saw that coming. Novice trick. It was a good fight either way. Talen better keep his word and send me a nice gift, that ring looks pretty fancy.
Written By Quirin
July 29, 2016, 10:29 a.m.(2/26/1004 AR)
I attended the first day of the Twelfth Golden Decathlon. It was a fine enough day on the Bay beneath Seawatch Gate. There were three aquatic competitions, in Swimming, Skiff Sailing and the Grand Regatta.
In Swimming, Lady Viviana Pravus took an early lead on the outward leg, followed by Lord Gustave Blackram and Lord Victus Thrax. On the return, Lord Gustave overtook Lady Viviana and Lord Victus was able to make up some ground, but not enough. Gustave first, Viviana second and Victus third.
In the skiffs, Lord Victus surged to an early lead, followed by Alrec and Acacia Culler. On the way back in, Lady Viviana was able to overtake Acacia. Victus first, Alrec second and Viviana third.
The Regatta had several turnings and could roughly be said to have four legs. In the first leg, Alrec came out first, with Lady Viviana in second and Lord Victus in third. In the second leg, both Victus and Viviana were able to gain on Alrec, with Victus managing to pull completely even. In the third section, Lord Victus fell back into third position, with Lady Viviana and her crew pulling ahead of both Alrec and Victus. In the homeward stretch, Alrec pulled ahead of Viviana again, but Victus was able to pass them both by. Victus first, Alrec second and Viviana third.
There were other competitors on the day, but my eyes did well to keep track of who was vying for the lead positions.
In Swimming, Lady Viviana Pravus took an early lead on the outward leg, followed by Lord Gustave Blackram and Lord Victus Thrax. On the return, Lord Gustave overtook Lady Viviana and Lord Victus was able to make up some ground, but not enough. Gustave first, Viviana second and Victus third.
In the skiffs, Lord Victus surged to an early lead, followed by Alrec and Acacia Culler. On the way back in, Lady Viviana was able to overtake Acacia. Victus first, Alrec second and Viviana third.
The Regatta had several turnings and could roughly be said to have four legs. In the first leg, Alrec came out first, with Lady Viviana in second and Lord Victus in third. In the second leg, both Victus and Viviana were able to gain on Alrec, with Victus managing to pull completely even. In the third section, Lord Victus fell back into third position, with Lady Viviana and her crew pulling ahead of both Alrec and Victus. In the homeward stretch, Alrec pulled ahead of Viviana again, but Victus was able to pass them both by. Victus first, Alrec second and Viviana third.
There were other competitors on the day, but my eyes did well to keep track of who was vying for the lead positions.
Written By Kima
July 29, 2016, 2:45 a.m.(2/25/1004 AR)
When I look back on our decision to leave Southport for that 'last adventure,' the ease with which the choice was made seems almost criminal. The cost that it would demand of us, that we unwittingly demanded others pay for us with their very lives, far outweighed the goal. Yet who ponders these things? Scholars who pour over dusty old tomes and cast their judgements upon fading ink and mouldering bones. The fearful, certainly. Those who long to live as I have lived but find every reason to avoid in, sheltered safe and sound within the four walls that compose their prison. And then...I think, the survivors. Those like me. Men and women that stagger clear of the smoke, looking about in sheer bewilderment.
Lucien had been dead for some time. Hadrian was ruling in all but name. We'd been back in Southport for perhaps a month and were starting to turn restless. Lounging within garden, I can still recall Canova as he tapped his finger against the old scroll he was reading.
-----
"This," he said, grinning devilishly. "This is what we shall recover."
Damaris, standing behind him, leaned over to squint at the yellowed document. "The Sword of Triam?" She asked, voice incredulous. She looked to both Kima and Yinali for support before continuing on to say, "You know the that's from the Age of Songs." Her tone had turned disparaging. "Otherwise known as the Age of Myth and Legend."
Canova was not to be deterred. Since returning to Southport, a peculiar humor had overtaken him. He spent long hours in various libraries and consulting with scholars. And, on two occasions, even engaged in conversations with priests. Rolling up the scroll, he returned it to its protective tube.
"All the clues are there," he said, not looking at any of them. "In writing, in maps, and in the land." Making a sweeping gesture to encompass all three women, he sneered. "While you three bicker, preen and deceive commoners into believing you're the answer to their prayers, I pay attention. I do more than look at the world around me. I notice, and I remember."
Getting to his feet, Canova strode towards the reflecting pool. Whatever he saw in himself as he stared into his shimmering alter ego must have been amusing, as he smirked. "We shall retrieve the Sword of Triam, and present it to Hadrian when Duchess Adona abdicates in his favor."
-----
How we all squawked at that. Talk of mythical swords was forgotten. Somehow, it was inconceivable to us to imagine the Duchess ever abdicating, despite the growing power her son wielded by the day. Yet of us all, Canova was the closest to the young man, had practically served the Malvicis all his life, and he was confident in his declaration. That night, it was his conviction that settled the deal - as it always did.
Lucien had been dead for some time. Hadrian was ruling in all but name. We'd been back in Southport for perhaps a month and were starting to turn restless. Lounging within garden, I can still recall Canova as he tapped his finger against the old scroll he was reading.
-----
"This," he said, grinning devilishly. "This is what we shall recover."
Damaris, standing behind him, leaned over to squint at the yellowed document. "The Sword of Triam?" She asked, voice incredulous. She looked to both Kima and Yinali for support before continuing on to say, "You know the that's from the Age of Songs." Her tone had turned disparaging. "Otherwise known as the Age of Myth and Legend."
Canova was not to be deterred. Since returning to Southport, a peculiar humor had overtaken him. He spent long hours in various libraries and consulting with scholars. And, on two occasions, even engaged in conversations with priests. Rolling up the scroll, he returned it to its protective tube.
"All the clues are there," he said, not looking at any of them. "In writing, in maps, and in the land." Making a sweeping gesture to encompass all three women, he sneered. "While you three bicker, preen and deceive commoners into believing you're the answer to their prayers, I pay attention. I do more than look at the world around me. I notice, and I remember."
Getting to his feet, Canova strode towards the reflecting pool. Whatever he saw in himself as he stared into his shimmering alter ego must have been amusing, as he smirked. "We shall retrieve the Sword of Triam, and present it to Hadrian when Duchess Adona abdicates in his favor."
-----
How we all squawked at that. Talk of mythical swords was forgotten. Somehow, it was inconceivable to us to imagine the Duchess ever abdicating, despite the growing power her son wielded by the day. Yet of us all, Canova was the closest to the young man, had practically served the Malvicis all his life, and he was confident in his declaration. That night, it was his conviction that settled the deal - as it always did.
Written By Kima
July 28, 2016, 11:38 p.m.(2/24/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Marcas
What can I say about Marcas Aodh - wait, are you sure that's how it's spelled? That doesn't look a thing like what he said his name was. That looks like Owe'd, as if he just stubbed his toe or something - fine, fine, you are the scholar and I trust you. I was just asking.
Where was I? Oh yes. Furs. Alcohol. Amusing accent. Brash overtures for romantic dalliances. I think that is what the north is made of. I'd accuse the man of being inhuman except that he couldn't hold back the vomit and came in last in the swimming event. That he competed at all is worthy of applause, though, I won't deny him that.
Where was I? Oh yes. Furs. Alcohol. Amusing accent. Brash overtures for romantic dalliances. I think that is what the north is made of. I'd accuse the man of being inhuman except that he couldn't hold back the vomit and came in last in the swimming event. That he competed at all is worthy of applause, though, I won't deny him that.
Written By Ida
July 28, 2016, 3:09 p.m.(2/23/1004 AR)
What a genuinely awesome Rite of Gloria! Of course I favored Prince Edain and, yes, I'm utterly biased. However, considering Duke Niccolo's age and likelihood that his skills might be more practiced, I'll also admit I was a little nervous about it. What I think was the best part was that they did not wield their personal weapons, but instead each had the same exact type of sword. To me, that evens the playing field better than anything. A blade of exceptional craftsmanship or material can sometimes turn the tide in favor of one over another. When each person comes to the grounds with the same exact type of blade, what we see in the trial is purely a match of skills. I'd love to see more such fights as that.
Written By Valencia
July 27, 2016, 10:15 p.m.(2/21/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Arianwen
Arianwen is a talented crafter in the city and I reached out to her to do some sort of fashion gathering because ladies plus silk equals profit, and wealthy crafters are productive crafters and I love to shop, naturally. I'll need to get together with her soon and set something up, she's terribly pretty which makes for a great co-host.
Written By Valencia
July 27, 2016, 10:12 p.m.(2/21/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Edain
Prince Edain is a light in the darkness, his good-cheer and endless supply of syrup-laden treats sure to deliver a smile no matter what mood I'm in or trouble I've caused. He's got his serious side as well, and I certainly wouldn't ever want to be on the wrong side of his ire, but I certainly look forward to learning more about him while I'm here in Arx.
Written By Nadia
July 27, 2016, 9:54 p.m.(2/21/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Alis
For such a tiny thing, Alis possesses a boundless vigor and zest for life that leaves one simply worn out if left to entertain her for far too long. I've encountered her a few times since my arrival in Arx; first during a tournament where she bested Prince Fergus Redrain in the final round, and again at the Amabassador Salon where we spoke for a great length over tea and candied bacon. I cannot help but feel as if she will grow on me over time, as I see glint of myself within her, back when I was younger still chasing on the heels of my elder brother, Dustin, between our martial lessons.
Written By Nadia
July 27, 2016, 9:53 p.m.(2/21/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Edain
He confided in me something that was never meant to be spilt from my lips, let alone in the halls of the Redrain villa surrounded by all who dared hear me - the fragile bond of an alliances forged upon the like similarities of the travesties that devastated our families respectively. That bond has since withered by my hand, but not unsalvagaeble; he gifted me a chance at redemption, and it is a challenge I shall conqeur with honor and valour all in due time.
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