Written By Cesare
July 23, 2021, 10:43 a.m.(11/20/1015 AR)
These past two or so weeks I've had my head down a bit more than usual. Focused on the less glamorous aspects of Whisperhood, you might say - yes, those exist. Certainly nothing interesting enough that it bears repeating here. Most of the anecdotes worth repeating are amusing but relatively trivial; an example: I was luxuriating in a rather hedonistic, lengthy bath last night with the fire blazing, and my rooms became quite lovely and toasty. By the time I'd decided to stifle the fire a bit, I later realized, it was already far too late, and what started as pleasantly toasty very rapidly became ovenlike. I had to open the window, and there I was, with a fire going and the window open at the same time, stripping clothing off again in an effort to find equilibrium. I have not - thus far - had complaints about the change of seasons, but in this instance my inexperience caught up with me rather abruptly.
Another anecdote - perhaps a threat, or an enticement, depending on how one feels, I suppose. My dear Lady Medeia premiered another delightful creation from the Saikland distillery this week, a digestif with the most complex herbal flavor, very aromatic and rather delightfully bitter. I can imagine it in a number of cocktails. Maybe with mint, or ginger. At the event, we somehow got on the topic of birds, and I confessed I occasionally consider obtaining a pet swan. Not least because of their fearsome and unpleasant reputation. Imagine what an excellent determent to unwanted company a swan would make! Anytime I'm feeling moody, I could simply set the swan on guard duty. Nobody would dare come near for fear of being buffeted, pinched, and pecked to death.
I'll be traveling soon to the Mourning Isles, to Eswynd Rock, to support my patron's projects. I am quite looking forward to it, despite assuredly knowing I will freeze my Southern fingers and toes right off, no doubt. The way Lady Medeia has described the austere beauty of the isle is something I suspect will provide a great deal of fodder for inspiration. More and more, the longer I am in Arx, the greater my longing for new experiences. Don't mistake my meaning; I could find beauty in the smallest and most familiar of things endlessly, but the breadth and sheer expansiveness of the wonder of the world which is available to me is simply stunning. Enriching, if you will. Even if I were never to use it directly in any music I wrote, I'm certain that it would still make itself known in me me and in any creative work I produce.
Another anecdote - perhaps a threat, or an enticement, depending on how one feels, I suppose. My dear Lady Medeia premiered another delightful creation from the Saikland distillery this week, a digestif with the most complex herbal flavor, very aromatic and rather delightfully bitter. I can imagine it in a number of cocktails. Maybe with mint, or ginger. At the event, we somehow got on the topic of birds, and I confessed I occasionally consider obtaining a pet swan. Not least because of their fearsome and unpleasant reputation. Imagine what an excellent determent to unwanted company a swan would make! Anytime I'm feeling moody, I could simply set the swan on guard duty. Nobody would dare come near for fear of being buffeted, pinched, and pecked to death.
I'll be traveling soon to the Mourning Isles, to Eswynd Rock, to support my patron's projects. I am quite looking forward to it, despite assuredly knowing I will freeze my Southern fingers and toes right off, no doubt. The way Lady Medeia has described the austere beauty of the isle is something I suspect will provide a great deal of fodder for inspiration. More and more, the longer I am in Arx, the greater my longing for new experiences. Don't mistake my meaning; I could find beauty in the smallest and most familiar of things endlessly, but the breadth and sheer expansiveness of the wonder of the world which is available to me is simply stunning. Enriching, if you will. Even if I were never to use it directly in any music I wrote, I'm certain that it would still make itself known in me me and in any creative work I produce.
Written By Medeia
July 23, 2021, 10:19 a.m.(11/20/1015 AR)
There comes a point where one has added so much to something that it is no longer that something and becomes something else.
I expressed this in regard to spirits - the liquid kind which we drink. An example being the Fernerra produced in Saikland. Though it starts with grapes, like wine, it has many additional ingredients and a different finishing process. It is not a wine. It cannot be called a wine, even if it might start out similarly.
And it seems to apply in other areas. Add enough length and frill to a blouse? It is a dress. Add meat and vegetables to broth? Soup. Add training and conviction to a swordsman? Knight. (Sometimes.)
It stands to reason that, inversely, if you take enough away from something that it will cease to be that something and become something else.
Be mindful of creating desperation.
I expressed this in regard to spirits - the liquid kind which we drink. An example being the Fernerra produced in Saikland. Though it starts with grapes, like wine, it has many additional ingredients and a different finishing process. It is not a wine. It cannot be called a wine, even if it might start out similarly.
And it seems to apply in other areas. Add enough length and frill to a blouse? It is a dress. Add meat and vegetables to broth? Soup. Add training and conviction to a swordsman? Knight. (Sometimes.)
It stands to reason that, inversely, if you take enough away from something that it will cease to be that something and become something else.
Be mindful of creating desperation.
Written By Arman
July 23, 2021, 9:57 a.m.(11/20/1015 AR)
Rumors of my relatives rising from their graves is certainly unsettling. They all had one thing in common as well. Those relatives that is.
Written By Razija
July 23, 2021, 9:02 a.m.(11/20/1015 AR)
I was in the market for a wardog when I visited a kennel in the Oathlands during a recent trip. Coming back from a Heart in Hand event, actually.
Perhaps I got too enthusiastic about the dogs when I put a (new, thank you very much) dog toy in my mouth and attempted to engage it in a tug of war.
It was far stronger than it appeared, and bested me. I chipped a tooth. Suffice to say, it won.
In the end, I got the dog. Perhaps I should call him Fang. I might think of a better name once I get this tooth tended to by a physician.
Perhaps I got too enthusiastic about the dogs when I put a (new, thank you very much) dog toy in my mouth and attempted to engage it in a tug of war.
It was far stronger than it appeared, and bested me. I chipped a tooth. Suffice to say, it won.
In the end, I got the dog. Perhaps I should call him Fang. I might think of a better name once I get this tooth tended to by a physician.
Written By Catriona
July 23, 2021, 9:01 a.m.(11/20/1015 AR)
It is difficult not to warm to the Laurent family. The Lady Mabelle is a force, and her name is known from here to Artshall for her charitable works, and keen dedication to the arts and fashion. The Duke a clever man who still manages to find small amusements despite grand responsibilities. There is an undeniable pride about their name, and particularly surrounding their lands in Artshall.
There are murmurs that it is becoming somewhat of a metropolitan landmark. The Lady Sabitha Bisland, also with familial ties to House Laurent and Artshall, has extended an invitation to join her the next time she visits. I look forward to seeing it all for myself. However, until I am able to be there in person, I've sent ten thousand silver to be used for the newly established orphanage, and teaching hospital to assist in the efforts.
One can only hope it makes a difference.
There are murmurs that it is becoming somewhat of a metropolitan landmark. The Lady Sabitha Bisland, also with familial ties to House Laurent and Artshall, has extended an invitation to join her the next time she visits. I look forward to seeing it all for myself. However, until I am able to be there in person, I've sent ten thousand silver to be used for the newly established orphanage, and teaching hospital to assist in the efforts.
One can only hope it makes a difference.
Written By Vitalis
July 23, 2021, 2:02 a.m.(11/20/1015 AR)
A scholar is writing this for me because my hands are still shaking too much to properly hold a quill.
I can see.
I don't even know where to begin.
Scratch that -- I do.
I can see.
I don't even know where to begin.
Scratch that -- I do.
Written By Celine
July 22, 2021, 10:04 p.m.(11/19/1015 AR)
I must admit that the fashions, the beauty, the poetry, the art that is on display throughout the quaint shops has caught my eye and I found a day of shopping not only invigorating but inspiring as well, as much as the people I have met so far in my investigations. The warmth of Princess Catriona, of Lady Petra Rivenshari, and Lady Bisland, true flowers with much beauty to appreciate. It so hard to say no to Princess Catriona when she sets her mind to something nothing can sway her. I admit that I can see there is much to learn and appreciate as well from each of these ladies, and much more of the city to explore as well.
Written By Giada
July 22, 2021, 9:07 p.m.(11/19/1015 AR)
Just got back from Sanctum, and it was nice to get my hands dirty again. Children, ancients, and those spanning the spectrum between, all coming to terms with a new definition of 'life'. Happiness and relief is dominant in the air, but there is also apprehension. Everything has changed for them, and I can only pray that their lives flourish now. May they never know slavery again, be it to man or fate.
Written By Ilira
July 22, 2021, 7:33 p.m.(11/19/1015 AR)
I want to dance.
I want a party, I want music.
Yes, I know it's my fault for not attending any of the most recent. I just can't bring myself, sometimes, whether for lack of an outfit or courage.
But I think I'll finish this ensemble I've had in the works a long time.
I want a party, I want music.
Yes, I know it's my fault for not attending any of the most recent. I just can't bring myself, sometimes, whether for lack of an outfit or courage.
But I think I'll finish this ensemble I've had in the works a long time.
Written By Savio
July 22, 2021, 11:39 a.m.(11/18/1015 AR)
There is a whispered space between
The chaos and the noise
Something less and something more
Than our sadness and our joy
There is a quiet place at home
Without censure or acclaim
An interstitial haven
Where our days pass so unchanged
We sing and write for heroes
And it's the drama we remember
But lives are made of softer things
A prosaic, simple center
Moments unremarked-upon
And how soon they slip from view
But I've come to know the value
Of the stillness shared with you.
---
I'm slowly putting myself back together.
The chaos and the noise
Something less and something more
Than our sadness and our joy
There is a quiet place at home
Without censure or acclaim
An interstitial haven
Where our days pass so unchanged
We sing and write for heroes
And it's the drama we remember
But lives are made of softer things
A prosaic, simple center
Moments unremarked-upon
And how soon they slip from view
But I've come to know the value
Of the stillness shared with you.
---
I'm slowly putting myself back together.
Written By Catriona
July 22, 2021, 6:54 a.m.(11/18/1015 AR)
I rescued a Princess today. According to the laws of chivalry, I am fairly certain I am now considered a heroine; let it be known to the bards!
Written By Emberly
July 21, 2021, 10:04 p.m.(11/17/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Patrizio
I cherish our talks over tea, I can not wait for more to follow. My dearest friend, I hope you enjoy the Whiskey
Written By Celine
July 21, 2021, 6:37 p.m.(11/17/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Catriona
Princess Catriona is one of the most compassion, courteous, and true Thraxian I have met so far. Hospitality fills her heart. She could feel how tired I was and made sure that I had a comfortable place to rest, until my own chambers are suitable for me to settle into. I look forward to getting to know her, after I have time to settle in more. This Valardian Princess, thanks her for being so gracious.
Written By Celine
July 21, 2021, 6:30 p.m.(11/17/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Ryhalt
Duke Ryhalt Farshaw, a work of art framed in a rustic personality, honest and curious. It was truly a pleasure to meet him in the Dire Bee and enjoy a cup of tea and conversation.
Written By Celine
July 21, 2021, 6:29 p.m.(11/17/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Raimon
A pleasure to meet him upon returning home, Hope is written in Prince Raimon Thrax's heart, he must remember it is there, and not let despair overwhelm him.
Written By Aureth
July 21, 2021, 2:36 p.m.(11/17/1015 AR)
I have noticed a recent trend of flowers of the nobility seeking, not proteges, but patrons, to better elevate them in society. I find myself remarkably skeptical of this practice. If you are already among the flowers of the nobility, use the cachet that you have and draw attention to yourself throughout the social season with balls and masques. Society knows about you and your blood. You just have to put yourself out there.
No, it is to elevate those rare commoners who can set society on its ear that etiquette demands we patronize. My protege, Mayir, has demonstrated his social acumen and his financial cleverness in ways uncommon among people of any blood, and I'm proud to flaunt our social connection even from my rarefied social heights.
It's not that you _cannot_ choose to make those of lesser noble blood your protege, of course, you can, but you aren't really bringing anything exciting to high society when you do, are you?
Be bold. Be daring. Find someone new and interesting!
No, it is to elevate those rare commoners who can set society on its ear that etiquette demands we patronize. My protege, Mayir, has demonstrated his social acumen and his financial cleverness in ways uncommon among people of any blood, and I'm proud to flaunt our social connection even from my rarefied social heights.
It's not that you _cannot_ choose to make those of lesser noble blood your protege, of course, you can, but you aren't really bringing anything exciting to high society when you do, are you?
Be bold. Be daring. Find someone new and interesting!
Written By Amari
July 21, 2021, 12:40 p.m.(11/17/1015 AR)
Just to clarify; Lady Mabelle has never, to my knowledge, purposefully razed an entire village.
I mean, there was the wooden palisade of that one village, but that was completely unintentional. The grass was dry. Besides, it was only the gate that was badly scorched. The wall itself was only singed. It was mostly fine.
I mean, there was the wooden palisade of that one village, but that was completely unintentional. The grass was dry. Besides, it was only the gate that was badly scorched. The wall itself was only singed. It was mostly fine.
Written By Cesare
July 20, 2021, 9:28 p.m.(11/15/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Medeia
No drowning would have happened even without my intervention, I assure you. My role has been wildly exaggerated. I suspect only that you and Lord Vitalis would both have ended up a bit more soggy and with the distinctly unpleasant feeling of water in your noses. As for the dancing, it is my solemn promise that I will remedy your lack of it at my earliest opportunity, that no toes will be stepped on, no drowning will occur, and I will do my level best to leave you laughing with exhilaration. It has been a heavy few months for most of us. We all deserve a little uncomplicated exhilaration.
Written By Emberly
July 20, 2021, 8:25 p.m.(11/15/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Ryhalt
A meeting of emotions, but a chance forward. I wont forget this Duke Farshaw.
Written By Tesha
July 20, 2021, 2:17 p.m.(11/15/1015 AR)
I have not been a stranger to death or loss of close friends and family. But sometimes things happen and we break. Then we pick ourselves up.
When we were young my father passed and my mother became inconsolable to the point where I took over as the Lady of the house. Which meant I did not have the streak of being a playful child, young adult that others had. We lost her two years after my father and I barely remember what their faces look like.
I made a wonderful friend years ago, then he died when Highhill was overran. Uncle Arn died shortly after that. Other friends and family died after that and it was weighing heavily on me. Then news that my only sibling, Percephon, had died broke what little resolve I had stored up. I've let too much eat at me and I think I went to the Pieros battlefield hoping that I might meet an end.
Apparently the Gods have something else for me to do. So I am digging myself out of the pit of despair that I've been sitting in for the last year and trying to start over. Maybe I'll make some new friends. Maybe I won't be afraid of losing more people. And maybe I'll go find this Knight that gave me a favor.
When we were young my father passed and my mother became inconsolable to the point where I took over as the Lady of the house. Which meant I did not have the streak of being a playful child, young adult that others had. We lost her two years after my father and I barely remember what their faces look like.
I made a wonderful friend years ago, then he died when Highhill was overran. Uncle Arn died shortly after that. Other friends and family died after that and it was weighing heavily on me. Then news that my only sibling, Percephon, had died broke what little resolve I had stored up. I've let too much eat at me and I think I went to the Pieros battlefield hoping that I might meet an end.
Apparently the Gods have something else for me to do. So I am digging myself out of the pit of despair that I've been sitting in for the last year and trying to start over. Maybe I'll make some new friends. Maybe I won't be afraid of losing more people. And maybe I'll go find this Knight that gave me a favor.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.