Written By Amari
July 11, 2021, 1:33 p.m.(10/25/1015 AR)
On horsemanship: One day you'll be thrown from the saddle and break something. It's nearly inevitable. Your horse doesn't care how expert you think you are or how many treatises you've written on the subject. When they want to go another way than you, they'll always win, unless somehow you're stronger, faster and bigger than a horse which seems entirely unlikely.
What you're really trying to learn is how not to be an utter nuisance to the horse. If you can manage that, you'll eventually come to know them well enough to sense when, where and how you can push them and conversely, when you shouldn't. Every horse has their own personality, with their own likes, dislikes and fears. Those are all revealed only by patience, careful observation and not surrendering to frustration when you're confounded.
When you finally come to know and trust one another, you'll fly and have no more loyal a companion. With no trust, you'll only find yourself sat precarious upon a mortal enemy who will stubbornly refuse to comply to any of your well reasoned requests and commands, and will not hesitate in the slightest to toss you into a bush or kick a hole in your skull whenever they grow tired of your sagacious pretensions.
No matter your station, a horse will teach you humility. It's a valuable lesson, and prerequisite to good horsemanship.
What you're really trying to learn is how not to be an utter nuisance to the horse. If you can manage that, you'll eventually come to know them well enough to sense when, where and how you can push them and conversely, when you shouldn't. Every horse has their own personality, with their own likes, dislikes and fears. Those are all revealed only by patience, careful observation and not surrendering to frustration when you're confounded.
When you finally come to know and trust one another, you'll fly and have no more loyal a companion. With no trust, you'll only find yourself sat precarious upon a mortal enemy who will stubbornly refuse to comply to any of your well reasoned requests and commands, and will not hesitate in the slightest to toss you into a bush or kick a hole in your skull whenever they grow tired of your sagacious pretensions.
No matter your station, a horse will teach you humility. It's a valuable lesson, and prerequisite to good horsemanship.
Written By Ida
July 11, 2021, 12:56 p.m.(10/25/1015 AR)
Sometimes things in the shop won't sell for a few weeks and then *poof* - the cases are suddenly empty again. I've a few sketches I've been toying with - dragon themes - but there are still some kinks I am trying to work out before they will be final designs. It has been a long time since I have done a special weapon in the shop; something vaguely extravagant in materials, but also (hopefully) an inspired tale paired to match. Perhaps I'll do another bow, or even a dagger, though swords always tend to sell better than either of those.
Written By Oswyn
July 11, 2021, 12:25 p.m.(10/25/1015 AR)
To do:
* Get a new hood made.
* Make another batch of soothing ointment.
* Avoid strenuous activity.
* Never sleep again.
Alright, maybe not that last part. But there are dreams I'm not looking forward to.
* Get a new hood made.
* Make another batch of soothing ointment.
* Avoid strenuous activity.
* Never sleep again.
Alright, maybe not that last part. But there are dreams I'm not looking forward to.
Written By Martino
July 11, 2021, 12:06 p.m.(10/25/1015 AR)
Oh the most wonderful idea was presented to me in order to keep my daughter Lady Arsenia on side since she keeps talking about getting a pet snake.
See about sponsoring one for her in the Menagerie's Reptile House and taking her to visit it ever-so-often.
No need to start thinking of ways to have a snake live in the House.
See about sponsoring one for her in the Menagerie's Reptile House and taking her to visit it ever-so-often.
No need to start thinking of ways to have a snake live in the House.
Written By Patrizio
July 11, 2021, 9:41 a.m.(10/24/1015 AR)
There is so much of Arvum I've yet to see. To be fair, to date, Arx and its surrounds are perhaps all I've seen of Arvum proper since leaving Setarco nearly two years ago - I've perhaps spent more time in the wilds of the Saffron Chain than the 'civilized' lands of the Compact. So, as such, I'm very grateful to have had the excuse to wander further afield to Artshall at Lady Mabelle Laurent's encouragement to attend the gala to inaugurate the arts and culture district there.
It was an exquisite evening to showcase the artistry of not only those of the Oathlands, but much of what the Compact has to offer in the arts. It is a constant wonder to me, the variety of such things that exists within our lands, and while I myself have shown little talent for it, I can appreciate those with an eye for it in its varied forms. (I would admit myself being partial to the dancing and musical performances, not that the play was not compelling, or the Princess Denica's art as fabulous as ever.) Given the astounding success of the evening in Artshall, I look forward eagerly to seeing the final outcome of Lady Mabelle's latest project, when the district is at last completed.
It was an exquisite evening to showcase the artistry of not only those of the Oathlands, but much of what the Compact has to offer in the arts. It is a constant wonder to me, the variety of such things that exists within our lands, and while I myself have shown little talent for it, I can appreciate those with an eye for it in its varied forms. (I would admit myself being partial to the dancing and musical performances, not that the play was not compelling, or the Princess Denica's art as fabulous as ever.) Given the astounding success of the evening in Artshall, I look forward eagerly to seeing the final outcome of Lady Mabelle's latest project, when the district is at last completed.
Written By Amari
July 11, 2021, 9:08 a.m.(10/24/1015 AR)
How is it nearly my birthday again? Where did the summer go? I almost feel that for all the struggles, all I managed to acquire was a limp and a very nice tan. It's not true, though. Many things have been accomplished and I have my friends to sincerely thank for the majority of them.
Perhaps I'll just have those bear claws made into earrings, or as Cristoph and Mabelle suggested, weapons. They'd make a gentle reminder to not wrestle bears and a decent birthday gift to myself. That is if the far greater gift fails to materialize.
(It's a straw hat, I'm hoping for a preposterously big one I can shelter under).
Perhaps I'll just have those bear claws made into earrings, or as Cristoph and Mabelle suggested, weapons. They'd make a gentle reminder to not wrestle bears and a decent birthday gift to myself. That is if the far greater gift fails to materialize.
(It's a straw hat, I'm hoping for a preposterously big one I can shelter under).
Written By Amari
July 11, 2021, 8:55 a.m.(10/24/1015 AR)
It was wonderful to visit Artshall and see the progress made there in establishing an arts district. My only regret was that I hadn't a starlight silk gown to wear for the occasion.
I think I was most taken by the statue of Duke Grimthog Two-Head Grayhill, not because he was particularly handsome or anything. It was just peculiar to see him rendered and tangible, rather than being a name attached to a figment of imagination alone. That's not to say everything else wasn't as impressive. Gianna's performance, was flawless, the efforts of Caprice at the shrine of Jayus I did enjoy as well, Mabelle was her usual stylish self, and conversation was pleasant.
When it's finished, I'll visit again. Perhaps I'll contribute a Petrichorman, or something more grand.
I think I was most taken by the statue of Duke Grimthog Two-Head Grayhill, not because he was particularly handsome or anything. It was just peculiar to see him rendered and tangible, rather than being a name attached to a figment of imagination alone. That's not to say everything else wasn't as impressive. Gianna's performance, was flawless, the efforts of Caprice at the shrine of Jayus I did enjoy as well, Mabelle was her usual stylish self, and conversation was pleasant.
When it's finished, I'll visit again. Perhaps I'll contribute a Petrichorman, or something more grand.
Written By Cambria
July 11, 2021, 2:15 a.m.(10/24/1015 AR)
Word to the wise: never admit, never bore.
Written By Cambria
July 11, 2021, 2:12 a.m.(10/24/1015 AR)
An invaluable lesson I have learned over the years is that your partner is wont to forgive you most anything so long as you keep it light and make them laugh.
Written By Cesare
July 11, 2021, 12:39 a.m.(10/24/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Medeia
The hough, as I have today learnt it is called, is also an excellent place for unexpected tickling. This is a proprietary Whisper technique of the Whisper House of Setarco.
Written By Cesare
July 11, 2021, 12:37 a.m.(10/24/1015 AR)
What a strange couple of weeks it's been. Full of ups and downs. Precipitous highs and bottomless lows. Well, no, probably not that dramatic. But I've the worst headache I've had in - ever, I think, and I'm writing this in the dark by only the light of a single candle to keep it a little at bay so I can focus on the words - so forgive the hyperbole, perhaps.
I performed recently at a dinner hosted by Lord and Lady Clement. The dinner itself was a delight, thoughtfully themed and peopled by a strange but pleasing mix of folk I doubt I would have found gathered together anywhere else. I was pleased with the song I'd written, inasmuch as I am ever pleased with anything I write in the moment of its creation (fellow artists and artisans reading this will sympathize, I suspect), and it was received with as much warmth as I could have asked for. I'm grateful. It feels fortunate indeed to have my talents both desired and appreciated by those I respect.
The gala in Artshall, too, was particularly grand. It was lovely to see such care and so much dedication put into celebrating the arts and culture. Of course I'm biased by nature of my discipleship, but I wonder if art isn't one of the most lasting artifacts of our civilizations. We remember songs and tales from long ago, after all - the details change, sometimes the characters, and meaning becomes obscure - but melodies often remain.
I've never precisely had family. This isn't a cry for sympathy in any sense; the past doesn't want sympathy, it's already been written, and my life has largely been a blessed one in many senses. But I've never before known the feeling of what it is to be trusted not because I am named Whisper, or because I have done some deed, or because I have behaved convincingly. These past months I've been - lucky feels like too small a word. I've known what it feels like to be trusted simply because I asked for trust. Because of who I am. I think that must be what the true feeling of family is like. And it's strange to have that feeling, toward someone who isn't family, who I never met until this very year! But I'm grateful for every time I see her and am reminded of it. Maybe if it's possible for souls to be siblings, ours are. Whatever the case - I'm grateful.
It's taken me far too long to write this. My head is splitting. I'm going to go have a nice, long soak.
I performed recently at a dinner hosted by Lord and Lady Clement. The dinner itself was a delight, thoughtfully themed and peopled by a strange but pleasing mix of folk I doubt I would have found gathered together anywhere else. I was pleased with the song I'd written, inasmuch as I am ever pleased with anything I write in the moment of its creation (fellow artists and artisans reading this will sympathize, I suspect), and it was received with as much warmth as I could have asked for. I'm grateful. It feels fortunate indeed to have my talents both desired and appreciated by those I respect.
The gala in Artshall, too, was particularly grand. It was lovely to see such care and so much dedication put into celebrating the arts and culture. Of course I'm biased by nature of my discipleship, but I wonder if art isn't one of the most lasting artifacts of our civilizations. We remember songs and tales from long ago, after all - the details change, sometimes the characters, and meaning becomes obscure - but melodies often remain.
I've never precisely had family. This isn't a cry for sympathy in any sense; the past doesn't want sympathy, it's already been written, and my life has largely been a blessed one in many senses. But I've never before known the feeling of what it is to be trusted not because I am named Whisper, or because I have done some deed, or because I have behaved convincingly. These past months I've been - lucky feels like too small a word. I've known what it feels like to be trusted simply because I asked for trust. Because of who I am. I think that must be what the true feeling of family is like. And it's strange to have that feeling, toward someone who isn't family, who I never met until this very year! But I'm grateful for every time I see her and am reminded of it. Maybe if it's possible for souls to be siblings, ours are. Whatever the case - I'm grateful.
It's taken me far too long to write this. My head is splitting. I'm going to go have a nice, long soak.
Written By Mabelle
July 11, 2021, 12:37 a.m.(10/24/1015 AR)
The intial presentation of the Art & Culture District has been complete. Funds were raised to support the art and offer more artists their place in the galleries as well as the ability to attend the school once it is opened, which is a very exciting concept for the young and old as one.
My sincere gratitude goes out to those who traveled all the way to Artshall to attend in hopes they enjoyed their stay in the city as well as to all those who aided me in making the night as lovely as it was and with the project as whole, particularly Princess Denica, Master Jareth, Mistresses Caprice and Aconite and the Nightingale Gianna, who offered a rare performance.
Many of the items showcased in the fashion tent has been sold, procceeds went to charity for the Honey Havens.
And those which were not sold? I suppose I shall have to 'endure' wearing them myself.
My sincere gratitude goes out to those who traveled all the way to Artshall to attend in hopes they enjoyed their stay in the city as well as to all those who aided me in making the night as lovely as it was and with the project as whole, particularly Princess Denica, Master Jareth, Mistresses Caprice and Aconite and the Nightingale Gianna, who offered a rare performance.
Many of the items showcased in the fashion tent has been sold, procceeds went to charity for the Honey Havens.
And those which were not sold? I suppose I shall have to 'endure' wearing them myself.
Written By Noah
July 11, 2021, 12:02 a.m.(10/24/1015 AR)
Also, sometimes, I just like to kick back with guys and do stupid shit. It doesn't mean I don't respect women. Have you met Liara? Have you met Jaenelle? Now imagine both of them bossing you around in life. That's how I live. It's hard.
Send booze.
Send booze.
Written By Piccola
July 11, 2021, 12:01 a.m.(10/24/1015 AR)
On the lance:
The lance is the hallmark of cavalry. Of all of the weapons she may bring to bear, a lance is a cavalrywoman's most terrifying. Men do not shake at a rain of arrows or the flash of a steel sword, but the end of a lance coming at him at full gallop is enough to make any soldier quiver. This is because there is more than just the point to be skewered upon: there is the terrifying crash, the force of the blow, and the substantial chance of being caught under hoof and trampled to death with one's peers.
The sound of cavalry at a full charge is the sound of death. It is the terrible rumbling that precedes the felling of a great tree, like the Gods themselves are crying out against what is happening. It tests the mettle of all men from its horrific reputation; and then comes the terrific truth that the sharp point can run through not one but many men in a row. Even if a lance lands upon an infantry shield, the force of the blow is enough to lift a man from the ground, through the air, and unto the point of a fellow's weapon.
To master the lance therefore is to be able cast horror into the hearts of your enemies.
The lance is the hallmark of cavalry. Of all of the weapons she may bring to bear, a lance is a cavalrywoman's most terrifying. Men do not shake at a rain of arrows or the flash of a steel sword, but the end of a lance coming at him at full gallop is enough to make any soldier quiver. This is because there is more than just the point to be skewered upon: there is the terrifying crash, the force of the blow, and the substantial chance of being caught under hoof and trampled to death with one's peers.
The sound of cavalry at a full charge is the sound of death. It is the terrible rumbling that precedes the felling of a great tree, like the Gods themselves are crying out against what is happening. It tests the mettle of all men from its horrific reputation; and then comes the terrific truth that the sharp point can run through not one but many men in a row. Even if a lance lands upon an infantry shield, the force of the blow is enough to lift a man from the ground, through the air, and unto the point of a fellow's weapon.
To master the lance therefore is to be able cast horror into the hearts of your enemies.
Written By Noah
July 10, 2021, 11:56 p.m.(10/23/1015 AR)
Etiquette Lesson of the Day:
Don't ask Elves if they are able to be poisoned or drugged by normal means in public.
Noted.
Don't ask Elves if they are able to be poisoned or drugged by normal means in public.
Noted.
Written By Ryhalt
July 10, 2021, 11:21 p.m.(10/23/1015 AR)
I had an enjoyable time at Artshall's Art & Culture District for the Midsummer Night's Delight. When it is built it will truly be a treasure for Laurent and Avrum.
Written By Thea
July 10, 2021, 10:40 p.m.(10/23/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Tanith
Messere Tanith is my saving grace right now. If she doesn't know it, she does now. THANK YOU!
Written By Rosalind
July 10, 2021, 10:37 p.m.(10/23/1015 AR)
As the leaves change color, I can't help but spend more and more time outside. I enjoy the crisp feel of the air, the damp smell of the earth. There's just a different feel, especially in the woods. I can't get enough of it and I find myself escaping more and more.
Written By Thea
July 10, 2021, 10:20 p.m.(10/23/1015 AR)
Home from Highhill, and I've---I have no words. We had been getting reports of some disturbances on our lands. With the help of the Explorers, namely Brother Oswyn, my cousin's husband Lord Marzio, Lady Medeia, and of course my husband, we set out. And let me tell you, what we found was what nightmares are made from. I won't go into specifics right now as I'm exhausted. I just want to say that we wouldn't have gotten far without their help. It's beyond appreciated. Your help is immeasurable. The people of Highhill will not soon forget it and neither will we.
Written By Rosalind
July 10, 2021, 8:59 p.m.(10/23/1015 AR)
Went to the Explorers meeting and ohmygosh, so many new people to join! I'm really excited for it! There's always so much to learn and things to see and do! Why would you NOT want to join?
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.