Written By Ida
July 10, 2016, 6:55 p.m.(12/26/1003 AR)
I fairly suck at keeping my journal as it properly should be. I know I should not allow myself to get so caught up in fighting or the forge, but I have lately and can only blame myself. So much has occurred and perhaps some will already be lost in detail because of my dawdling.
I /was/ quite busy with work and Prince Edain has been beyond gracious in allowing me to work for members of other houses. I've yet to make him a new set or a sword of any sort. I am rather hoping to get my skills up so I can make him something truly worthy the leader of House Valardin. I haven't thought of just /how/ I want to do it, yet, so theme is something to continue to consider.
I am rather proud of the sets for Princess Marian and Princess Alis, respectively. Princess Marian's took me days - I could not get it quite right. The dragon of the forest theme, though, I was super pleased with. A nod to her history, y'know? For Princess Alis, with her stunning pale hair, I did not want to do a white set though, despite house colors. Pale grays with blue dragon flame ended up as the theme and I loved it so much, I might make myself a knife somewhat like it. She requested a sword to match the set, which I obliged. It feels good to help arm my House and better yet that they seemed pleased with the work.
I /was/ quite busy with work and Prince Edain has been beyond gracious in allowing me to work for members of other houses. I've yet to make him a new set or a sword of any sort. I am rather hoping to get my skills up so I can make him something truly worthy the leader of House Valardin. I haven't thought of just /how/ I want to do it, yet, so theme is something to continue to consider.
I am rather proud of the sets for Princess Marian and Princess Alis, respectively. Princess Marian's took me days - I could not get it quite right. The dragon of the forest theme, though, I was super pleased with. A nod to her history, y'know? For Princess Alis, with her stunning pale hair, I did not want to do a white set though, despite house colors. Pale grays with blue dragon flame ended up as the theme and I loved it so much, I might make myself a knife somewhat like it. She requested a sword to match the set, which I obliged. It feels good to help arm my House and better yet that they seemed pleased with the work.
Written By Alrec
July 10, 2016, 6:50 p.m.(12/26/1003 AR)
It has been a week, the ship's hull has been scraped and pulled back into sea. We settled on a smaller sail this time to use the rest of the money to train the deputies and that has allowed us to recruit more sailors which was one of our priorities. I have had the chance to meet various important figures but the one to note is the pugilist Ida whom I have been training with. I feel that by taking boxing back up that it'll keep my mind busy. The House doesn't ask much from me and when it does I've been able to stay one step ahead of them and give them instant results which only strengthens my appeal towards them. I have attended a couple tournaments and have a hard time finding them appealing. It is one thing to kill a man in combat and it is another to play pretend but I suppose each their own. Ms. Acacia is holding a Riverside Feast in a couple days. I'm looking forward to that. When we met it wasn't the best of meetings. I suppose House Velenosa reminding me where I belong as they tend to do, so it was brisk and I don't know. I should have just handled it with a messenger. Victus, I mean Lord Victus now, is holding a Street Feast of his own which I am looking forward to and I am sure the crew too. Everyone has been working hard so I think the timing is perfect. I've allowed the men some leave but the rest are on duty until those come back, and so on. The quartermaster is dealing with it.
Written By Dagon
July 10, 2016, 6:31 p.m.(12/26/1003 AR)
Relationship Note on Alarissa
The Masquerade ball hosted by Princess Alarissa Valardin was quite the event, and she was quite the hostess. I didn't win the vote for the best costume, but she made sure to let me know she appreciated the thoughtfulness with which I chose my mask, which was quite gracious of her. We spoke at length, I look forward to getting to know her further.
Written By Acacia
July 10, 2016, 6:17 p.m.(12/26/1003 AR)
Relationship Note on Hammar
He's a big fucker, isn't he? I imagine I could make that prettier somehow, but the description seems really apt. Ulbran knew what he was doing when he brought him into the fold, I imagine. I have to admit that I like the guy, though. With the lines as they were in the Boroughs, we'll never be the swiftest of friends, but a number of thrown rocks and an exchanged bit of food or so won't hurt. We'll see how it goes in the next several weeks and have to go from there.
Written By Margot
July 10, 2016, 5:25 p.m.(12/25/1003 AR)
Relationship Note on Edain
When young girls close their eyes and think of a prince, I believe Prince Edain is exactly the sort of charming they imagine might ride in with his sword and shield and save them from the monsters in this world. Would that all the houses were so noble we would never need fight amongst ourselves.
Written By Bliss
July 10, 2016, 2:43 p.m.(12/25/1003 AR)
A number of days ago, I caught wind of a wine tasting being held. Of course I simply had to attend, but I'd also soon found myself with an invitation from the hostess: Princess Isolde Velenosa, expressing intent to have the House purchase some of the wine. I accepted. I had a grand and glorious time, meeting quite a number of influential nobles. The Princess and I hit off wonderfully, teasing a few others present; particularly Prince Kieran Redrain, who had apparently made advances upon Her Highness. The wine was second to none as well! In the end, I think I secured a patron for more than just the Whisper House at this event. I look forward to what the future brings. Such new and interesting possibilities from a single party that I originally attended just to sample some alcohol.
Written By Viviana
July 10, 2016, 2:26 p.m.(12/25/1003 AR)
I missed the Tournament Calista held the other night. It often seems that I'm unable to attend many of the most popular social events. It's a shame, it would've been quite enjoyable to watch or participate in I think. Curious that neither Kima nor Victus took part, I think they're cut from the same cloth in a lot of ways. Rumours abound about Talen's cheating in the finals yet I have to wonder was it actually against any listed rules? If not that is really the fault of the tournament organizers and not the Sword, I should offer him a job in House Pravus sometime, we're much more used to weathering allegations than our cousins and have developed it into something of a fine art.
Written By Alis
July 10, 2016, 2:17 p.m.(12/25/1003 AR)
Relationship Note on Alarissa
Alis never expected to really have to act in a 'Princess-like' manner. She'd be a knight, do the family proud, and that's it. But now? Now she knows she wears multiple hats and although being a Knight is the first and foremost one... how the hell DOES she act like a Princess? For that, she looks up to Alarissa. She sees her as the epitome of what a good Princess is. Her manners, her ability to put together an event, and her graciousness. Even her social ambition. Alis' looks up to her so she can try to emulate it.
Written By Ailith
July 10, 2016, 9:59 a.m.(12/25/1003 AR)
Relationship Note on Rohkir
An unusual man, not just in his height, I somehow doubt that he holds to the faith of the pantheon but for all that he was willing to aid with my efforts to deliver alms. He does however seem to feel strangely strongly about not participating in tournaments and walking around bleeding whilst neglecting medical attention is more than passingly odd.
Written By Ailith
July 10, 2016, 9:55 a.m.(12/24/1003 AR)
In the absence of being able to do anything about the true problems plaguing us, I have been trying to corral various members of the nobility into helping provision alms for the poor. This makes me feel, cheap almost? As if I am a merchant harassing people.
But now I look back at what I have written I feel shame, this is a real problem. Most people do not necessarily care for the fate of the king or who rules the kingdom, they want freedom from banditry and a good harvest. Providing hope to the most desperate and perhaps saving lives that would otherwise have been lost, letting people go to sleep with a full stomach where they would have felt the gnawing of hunger? That is a true problem and awkwardness a very slight price to pay for those hundreds of victories.
But now I look back at what I have written I feel shame, this is a real problem. Most people do not necessarily care for the fate of the king or who rules the kingdom, they want freedom from banditry and a good harvest. Providing hope to the most desperate and perhaps saving lives that would otherwise have been lost, letting people go to sleep with a full stomach where they would have felt the gnawing of hunger? That is a true problem and awkwardness a very slight price to pay for those hundreds of victories.
Written By Ailith
July 10, 2016, 9:48 a.m.(12/24/1003 AR)
Relationship Note on Victus
A difficult man to understand, he is no doubt a great warrior and his faith seems genuine, but his respect for anyone who does not share his puissance is tangible and I do fail to understand the underling misogyny of Thraxian culture.
Written By Ailith
July 10, 2016, 9:47 a.m.(12/24/1003 AR)
Relationship Note on Alarissa
I have met this woman several times now, she seems to genuinely wish to be a good person and, as or more importantly, make efforts to accomplish this, despite the tragedies she has felt herself. She does seem remarkably naive about the lives of those born into less exalted circumstances but that is only to be expected.
Written By Ailith
July 10, 2016, 9:42 a.m.(12/24/1003 AR)
Relationship Note on Valencia
She apparently believes that the king's affliction is a result of some weakness of mind or excessive grief which he could simply 'snap out of' if he truly desired. This strikes me as breathtakingly judgmental and unbecoming.
Written By Silas
July 10, 2016, 3:31 a.m.(12/24/1003 AR)
I met Prince Inquisitor Gareth Grayson today at the Trader's Tavern. Though his initial demeanor was somewhat unsettling, he began to drop not-so-subtle hints that he wished for my help in catching the assassins which have abruptly ended the lives of so many noble leaders and has left our own king staring off into space and drooling on himself. A noble cause and one many will support, at least publically. I do wish to help him, but I worry the assailants he is after will learn of what he's doing and take precautions to hinder any promising investigation.
But, perhaps, the prince shows uncommon insight in recruiting those who can listen where he may be unable to. Not many princes would dare to pass the threshold of a dingy commoner tavern to make nice with a common guardsman.
He is also not as unfriendly and unsociable as he thinks he is, regardless of the scars. His banter with the towering Thraxian who intruded on our conversation was refreshingly frank. He insisted he was not an ally of mine, but I suspect that may change in the future.
I also became acquainted with Lady Calypso. She made some startling claims about Southport I do not entirely believe, be she is also good company beneath the icy exterior.
No one of importance showed up for the Rite of Gloria I had organized in the temple. I dueled a templar instead, so our efforts would not entirely go to waste. I might try again some time in the future, but I suspect the crowds are more interested in the big tournaments and their fanfare. Disappointing, but predictable.
But, perhaps, the prince shows uncommon insight in recruiting those who can listen where he may be unable to. Not many princes would dare to pass the threshold of a dingy commoner tavern to make nice with a common guardsman.
He is also not as unfriendly and unsociable as he thinks he is, regardless of the scars. His banter with the towering Thraxian who intruded on our conversation was refreshingly frank. He insisted he was not an ally of mine, but I suspect that may change in the future.
I also became acquainted with Lady Calypso. She made some startling claims about Southport I do not entirely believe, be she is also good company beneath the icy exterior.
No one of importance showed up for the Rite of Gloria I had organized in the temple. I dueled a templar instead, so our efforts would not entirely go to waste. I might try again some time in the future, but I suspect the crowds are more interested in the big tournaments and their fanfare. Disappointing, but predictable.
Written By Hadrian
July 10, 2016, 1:44 a.m.(12/23/1003 AR)
I did not expect cheating at an exhibition. It's gauche and shows poor priorities.
If Lady Kima's steed survives, then there may be no permanent damage to anything but Talen Artiglio's reputation. House Velenosa's trust in him would be more damaging had Princess Isolde not offered a reward for anyone who downed the Sword of Velenosa in the melee and Duke Niccolo not interceded to pay the wagers of those who had bet on Artiglio.
If Lady Kima's steed survives, then there may be no permanent damage to anything but Talen Artiglio's reputation. House Velenosa's trust in him would be more damaging had Princess Isolde not offered a reward for anyone who downed the Sword of Velenosa in the melee and Duke Niccolo not interceded to pay the wagers of those who had bet on Artiglio.
Written By Acacia
July 10, 2016, midnight(12/23/1003 AR)
Relationship Note on Alis
Frankly, Princess Alis Valardin was a surprise. It's always a gamble when you try to reach out to people you're unfamiliar with, but she offered me that seat despite us both being keenly aware that I likely didn't deserve it. Her demeanor was impeccable, gracious, thoughtful -- without being droll or boring. It's a rare feat. If I believed in stories, or if I wrote them, she'd fit into one flawlessly. I'm not big on explaining about honor and I'm undoubtedly a horrid judge, but if anyone was claimed to be 'honorable', she's deserving of the title.
Written By Fergus
July 9, 2016, 11:58 p.m.(12/23/1003 AR)
Decided to join in on Calista's TORnament that she held. It was the first time wielding something other than a training blade for many months. Although I ended up losing to a woman 10 years younger and a foot shorter than me, Princess Alis, I do believe I acquitted myself well enough. I was the last person to drop, after having a hell of a bout with Sir Silas, who is quite the tank when it comes to absorbing hits over and over.
Written By Fergus
July 9, 2016, 11:55 p.m.(12/23/1003 AR)
Relationship Note on Nadia
Duchess Nadia Nightgold, likely what could be considered a great catch for any man. She takes to Fergus' humor quite well, she knows how to lead men into battle and she knows how to fight. The Duchess is a great companion to keep around, and one Fergus may be interested to have for years yet to come. He doesn't quite know what she thinks of him, at times she seems to think highly of him, other times, Fergus is pretty certain she is just trying to figure him out.
Written By Alis
July 9, 2016, 6:24 p.m.(12/23/1003 AR)
Relationship Note on Sophie
A Disciple of Lagoma, and a sliver of peace within the Valardin family. As any good Knight-In-Training in liable to do, Alis suffered any number of injuries that needed healing. And Sophie is the healer she would unfailingly seek out whenever she was available and in Arx to do so. And the day Alis' found out about the deaths of so many in her family, Sophie was instinctively the person she sought out to cling to that she knew would not judge her for the moments of weakness as she wept.
Written By Valencia
July 9, 2016, 5:22 p.m.(12/22/1003 AR)
There's nothing quite like southern wine, and southern company. Add some of my favorite Northland family members to the mix, and the party was exactly what I needed. Beautiful, relaxing, and in some moments absolutely hilarious. The highlights, as I recall them:
1. Prince Luca offering his arm to Talen. It was so ridiculously gallant. Talen was a class-act in getting around it.
2. Princess Ophelia murdering the avian intruders in the garden maze. I'd worry if she wasn't such a sweetheart.
3. Duke Vercyn establishing the Northern duchy of Sideline. I wonder if we'll lay down claim upon the benches of future gatherings?
All in all, it was a lovely night with beautiful lanterns, people, and music, a true testament to Lycene sensibilities.
1. Prince Luca offering his arm to Talen. It was so ridiculously gallant. Talen was a class-act in getting around it.
2. Princess Ophelia murdering the avian intruders in the garden maze. I'd worry if she wasn't such a sweetheart.
3. Duke Vercyn establishing the Northern duchy of Sideline. I wonder if we'll lay down claim upon the benches of future gatherings?
All in all, it was a lovely night with beautiful lanterns, people, and music, a true testament to Lycene sensibilities.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.