Written By Arik
Jan. 24, 2019, 4:37 p.m.(6/12/1010 AR)
On the day 12th day of the sixth month of 1010 AR House Halfshav has finished distributing one million silver to our people. These monies were given not only to the families of soldiers lost in defense of the Lodge of Petrichor but also those grievously wounded. In addition recognition for acts of bravery in the face of the enemy were granted throughout the army. With this act now complete House Halfshav can begin to rebuild the army which has stood for hundreds of years not only against the hordes of Everwinter but the threats against the Compact.
Lord Arik Halfshav
Sword of Whitehold
War Minister of Whitehold
Lord Arik Halfshav
Sword of Whitehold
War Minister of Whitehold
Written By Arik
Jan. 13, 2019, 11:39 p.m.(5/9/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Thorvald
A quiet contemplative soldier of Whitehold now named House Guard. I expect to hear good things of the man especially now when everyone much be exemplary.
Written By Arik
Jan. 9, 2019, 11 a.m.(4/28/1010 AR)
Lord Arik Halfshav's treatise on the Great Road
On the date of 4/28/1010 AR there was an abundance of news regarding the consequences of the ambitious project known now as the Great Road. I write this brief treatise on the topic in the hopes future readers that care about my thoughts might avoid such issues. If I am still alive, then this white is not meant for you. Thus we begin.
First let us establish my own position. When Lord Kaldur reached out to House Halfshav I was immediately interested in the project. We are currently expanding a Mangata shrine town named Cascade Springs and the aid in roads, especially in such a hostile northern environment, can be invaluable. I encouraged my cousin Lord Mirk Halfshav to consider the project and he likewise saw the value in it. House Halfshav was a sponsor of the road.
Second let us acknowledge the consequences. Although the borders of Whitehold might be drawn in a complete line on a map that is a pretty notion. House Halfshav may have rights to the land within our domain but there are pockets of shavs either in the form of nomadic tribes which come down from Everwinter or actually settled tribes of abandoned. All of Avrum is likewise filled with the pretty maps that show the edges and borders of our noble domains and not the pockets of 'wilds' that exist within them.
So it is we have the Great Road, ambitious that it would connect as many domains on the map of Avrum as it could while daring the pockets of 'wilds' that do not exist on those maps but most certainly exist when one travels. For what it is worth the road itself was built, the deed was done, but now shav tribes and Compact Houses alike react to the new state of things. There have been skirmishes, religious conflicts, and more. In no less than a month from Copper's sacrifice we see that the world is not new and reborn with some special call to action. The world is still the world, the dream is still the dream, and as the Pantheon might say humanity still must guard against their own reflection. Nothing has changed, but we still try to improve things while our time still turns. The Great Road is a symbol of that drive to improve and do good. No matter what may come of it.
In the future when you read these white journals and see opinions both great and small I beseech you readers of this opinion. Good things do not come without cost. Gain does not come without risk. Though history might judge the Great Road for folly or current opinion at court might call into question the wisdom. Remember that when knowledge was lost we sought it. When the art of the world was tainted we pursued it. These endeavours were no less fraught with risk than the Great Road, no less ambitious, and in the end they are the same. Remember that while patience and caution are laudable traits inaction is still the enemy of progress and a better tomorrow. At least we hope for better.
On the date of 4/28/1010 AR there was an abundance of news regarding the consequences of the ambitious project known now as the Great Road. I write this brief treatise on the topic in the hopes future readers that care about my thoughts might avoid such issues. If I am still alive, then this white is not meant for you. Thus we begin.
First let us establish my own position. When Lord Kaldur reached out to House Halfshav I was immediately interested in the project. We are currently expanding a Mangata shrine town named Cascade Springs and the aid in roads, especially in such a hostile northern environment, can be invaluable. I encouraged my cousin Lord Mirk Halfshav to consider the project and he likewise saw the value in it. House Halfshav was a sponsor of the road.
Second let us acknowledge the consequences. Although the borders of Whitehold might be drawn in a complete line on a map that is a pretty notion. House Halfshav may have rights to the land within our domain but there are pockets of shavs either in the form of nomadic tribes which come down from Everwinter or actually settled tribes of abandoned. All of Avrum is likewise filled with the pretty maps that show the edges and borders of our noble domains and not the pockets of 'wilds' that exist within them.
So it is we have the Great Road, ambitious that it would connect as many domains on the map of Avrum as it could while daring the pockets of 'wilds' that do not exist on those maps but most certainly exist when one travels. For what it is worth the road itself was built, the deed was done, but now shav tribes and Compact Houses alike react to the new state of things. There have been skirmishes, religious conflicts, and more. In no less than a month from Copper's sacrifice we see that the world is not new and reborn with some special call to action. The world is still the world, the dream is still the dream, and as the Pantheon might say humanity still must guard against their own reflection. Nothing has changed, but we still try to improve things while our time still turns. The Great Road is a symbol of that drive to improve and do good. No matter what may come of it.
In the future when you read these white journals and see opinions both great and small I beseech you readers of this opinion. Good things do not come without cost. Gain does not come without risk. Though history might judge the Great Road for folly or current opinion at court might call into question the wisdom. Remember that when knowledge was lost we sought it. When the art of the world was tainted we pursued it. These endeavours were no less fraught with risk than the Great Road, no less ambitious, and in the end they are the same. Remember that while patience and caution are laudable traits inaction is still the enemy of progress and a better tomorrow. At least we hope for better.
Written By Arik
Jan. 3, 2019, 10:32 a.m.(4/16/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Fairen
Marquis for someone who is so disfavored for speaking so oft out of turn mayhap you should refrain from public records keeping.
House Telmar made an official offer by the word and hand of Duke Arn Telmar
Champion Bliss Whisper, the Softest Whisper pushed for mediation by the Faith
And then we all waited.
House Telmar made an official offer by the word and hand of Duke Arn Telmar
Champion Bliss Whisper, the Softest Whisper pushed for mediation by the Faith
And then we all waited.
Written By Arik
Dec. 31, 2018, 1 p.m.(4/10/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Bliss
If only Everard had done the traitorous and criminal deeds while declaring he did them not as a Lord of Telmar or Sword of Telmarch then we wouldn't have watching the ongoing travesty of a commoner laying claim to the House Sword and continually assaulting a Ducal House's honor. Right?
Mayhap I should preface all of my white journals with the warning the words therein are not that of the Sword of Whitehold but simply Arik? I imagine my Uncle and Sister and all the readers would respect that distinction which I insist upon. Those with duties, position, and responsibility must always bear such in public.
Despite my disapproval of your selective nature, Softest Whisper Bliss, I have changed my mind on this matter. I wish with all my heart you receive the House Sword of Telmarch simply so you can realize how empty and hollow such a blade is removed from the family whose honor it represents. When you draw it what will you draw it for? What great purpose will the blade serve in your hand? No matter the purpose you put it towards it will no longer be what it is. It will become some empty trophy of personal pride.
Mayhap I should preface all of my white journals with the warning the words therein are not that of the Sword of Whitehold but simply Arik? I imagine my Uncle and Sister and all the readers would respect that distinction which I insist upon. Those with duties, position, and responsibility must always bear such in public.
Despite my disapproval of your selective nature, Softest Whisper Bliss, I have changed my mind on this matter. I wish with all my heart you receive the House Sword of Telmarch simply so you can realize how empty and hollow such a blade is removed from the family whose honor it represents. When you draw it what will you draw it for? What great purpose will the blade serve in your hand? No matter the purpose you put it towards it will no longer be what it is. It will become some empty trophy of personal pride.
Written By Arik
Dec. 23, 2018, 9:44 p.m.(3/23/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Rowenova
Some people claim having children is difficult. I suppose it is but at the end of the day your children are shaped by you and the family. Having a strong willed retainer whom you want to see flourish must be infinitely more difficult. They came to you their own person and old enough to say 'No m'Lord'
Not that Scout Rowenova has ever told me no that I can recall.
Not that Scout Rowenova has ever told me no that I can recall.
Written By Arik
Dec. 23, 2018, 9:42 p.m.(3/23/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Helena
An interesting re-introduction to the Redrain Princess. I feel we have somewhat more in common to discuss now that my time as a Voice of Redrain is done... And I can share all my Princess Elgana stories with her.
This one time at dinner she said: Well not me Lord Arik, have you considered my sisters instead?
This one time at dinner she said: Well not me Lord Arik, have you considered my sisters instead?
Written By Arik
Dec. 16, 2018, 10:56 p.m.(3/9/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Acantha
Two events in as many weeks and both of them rather well down in my opinion. She is guiding House Clearlake to being a recognized name in the Redrain ward and I have no doubt that she and Baron Kritr will soon have them be a recognized name throughout the capital.
Written By Arik
Dec. 5, 2018, 5:22 p.m.(2/14/1010 AR)
House Halfshav lost over five hundred soldiers in the defense of the Compact and the Lodge. These brave men and women laid down their lives not only for their neighbors in the south but the Spirits and the Gods alike. This white journal is submitted for posterity. House Halfshav honors its fallen in all things. Stipends will be paid to families, memorials held for the fallen, and the blessings of Spirits and Gods invoked upon their behalf.
Whom still draws breath is yet undefeated.
Whose victory is attained after death is ever victorious.
Lord Arik Halfshav
Sword of Whitehold
War Minister of Whitehold
Whom still draws breath is yet undefeated.
Whose victory is attained after death is ever victorious.
Lord Arik Halfshav
Sword of Whitehold
War Minister of Whitehold
Written By Arik
Dec. 2, 2018, 11:18 p.m.(2/8/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Acantha
My newest protege and a vassal to my house. As a prodigal noble she faces a steep expectation not only of her but her family. Baron Kritr has made inroads with festivals and the tour of Legate Bianca, formerly Archscholar, through his lands. I expect Lady Acantha to only further bring Clearlake into the Compact and mayhap strengthen some of the traditionalist northern mores I hold so dear to myself.
Written By Arik
Nov. 30, 2018, 9:51 p.m.(2/4/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Modi
I haven't heard of this Modi person before, but whoever does their jewelry I should remember to order something from them when I want to appease my sister. I'll be sure to let Row know to find out for me. Anyone who can get people to talk about jewelry to me like I'd be amazed by the very tale of its unveiling to the public must be a charismatic and dashing sort... or the jewelry is amazing.
Written By Arik
Nov. 25, 2018, 11:49 p.m.(1/22/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Eilonwy
My former protege now turned Marquessa. She has an appropriately practical outlook on her situation and the prospects before her. For any Lords seeking a northern match might I suggest the Marquessa Blackwood. No calling could be greater than the taming of prodigal lands to reap the benefits of the Compact. Nor do I find many Peers as pragmatic as Marquessa Blackwood in pursuing their noble duties. Perhaps the one thing that can be said of the neo-noble is should they recognize the obligation they must live to fulfill they make rather dogged traditionalists.
I do like tradition.
I do like tradition.
Written By Arik
Nov. 21, 2018, 12:17 p.m.(1/13/1010 AR)
There appears to be a lot of discussion and mayhap concern about the abandoned of late and Sir Preston's own thoughts on the matter. I cannot help but wonder why? The Faith Militant does not go throughout the Compact uninvited to do as they please. The matter of shavs has always and will always be the onus for the landholding families, the Peerage. As long as you do not violate the percepts of the Gods nor the laws of the Crown you may do as you wish to secure the lands and your people against threat. If people would judge you than so be it, you were not given such responsibility to never face adversity. You were not given lands and people and privilege to not lead. It is the Noble Duty to make such choices and live with such consequences even if it means disfavor at court. What a terror it must be.
Beyond my questioning observation my only advice to offer is simple. No matter what is said or written the results of your decision are your own. Be you the head of your family, the voice of your house, or the war minister for your people. Never can you shirk responsibility and say but they said. You must do as you feel best for your people and your lands be it mercy or brutality. All that comes after comes because of you.
Beyond my questioning observation my only advice to offer is simple. No matter what is said or written the results of your decision are your own. Be you the head of your family, the voice of your house, or the war minister for your people. Never can you shirk responsibility and say but they said. You must do as you feel best for your people and your lands be it mercy or brutality. All that comes after comes because of you.
Written By Arik
Oct. 24, 2018, 12:03 a.m.(11/12/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Oliver
Master Oliver and I were not particularly close. He had an impressive sense of humor and if you've ever been to a beards and brew night at the Spirits you have seen his impressive tanned codpiece trousers to know what I am talking about. I have friends whom are very upset that he is dead. I see people making generous donations to a cause that by all accounts he believed in wholeheartedly. I've seen his good works in the rebuilding of Darkwater's domain.
The only difference between Master Oliver Arterius and any other citizen that has died in some grime crime is that this man reached out to people. If ever you question whether you will be remembered, look to Lord Valerio Mazetti and Master Oliver Arterius. Both left achievements fondly remembered, may such memories not be lost to sorrow. Seek to emulate their efforts and you will be remembered.
The only difference between Master Oliver Arterius and any other citizen that has died in some grime crime is that this man reached out to people. If ever you question whether you will be remembered, look to Lord Valerio Mazetti and Master Oliver Arterius. Both left achievements fondly remembered, may such memories not be lost to sorrow. Seek to emulate their efforts and you will be remembered.
Written By Arik
Oct. 20, 2018, 9:20 p.m.(11/3/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Khanne
The Voice of Halfshav
Vala of the Northlands
My Sister
Some short time ago she was tending to a great blight on the land. It was night and a mountain lioness tainted by the corruption lept from the shadows. I saw it, I dove, and down we went. Eventually, while I was being nearly mauled to death she put an arrow through its throat and Mirk rallied the soldiers to stab it before hauling it off me. It was very big.
I recount this story because while I may dive headlong into danger (and other things) for my family or due my own mistakes. My family is always there to see that it does not end in disaster.
Also for those curious she has not stabbed me or bludgeoned me with her new staff. I must be doing something right?
Vala of the Northlands
My Sister
Some short time ago she was tending to a great blight on the land. It was night and a mountain lioness tainted by the corruption lept from the shadows. I saw it, I dove, and down we went. Eventually, while I was being nearly mauled to death she put an arrow through its throat and Mirk rallied the soldiers to stab it before hauling it off me. It was very big.
I recount this story because while I may dive headlong into danger (and other things) for my family or due my own mistakes. My family is always there to see that it does not end in disaster.
Also for those curious she has not stabbed me or bludgeoned me with her new staff. I must be doing something right?
Written By Arik
Oct. 17, 2018, 2:24 p.m.(10/18/1009 AR)
On the topic of best beards...
It was decided some months ago that Lord Geralt Crovane, Sword of Stormwall has the best beard in the city. This was voted on by a committee of interested observers at the Beards and Brew sponsored by House Redrain at the Spirits.
If the results are questioned there will be a beard and brew once the Lodge has been deemed secure. If you feel your beard is better than the rest. Put your face rug to the test. Come and display your finely groomed jaw.
It was decided some months ago that Lord Geralt Crovane, Sword of Stormwall has the best beard in the city. This was voted on by a committee of interested observers at the Beards and Brew sponsored by House Redrain at the Spirits.
If the results are questioned there will be a beard and brew once the Lodge has been deemed secure. If you feel your beard is better than the rest. Put your face rug to the test. Come and display your finely groomed jaw.
Written By Arik
Oct. 13, 2018, 10:28 p.m.(10/11/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Cambria
I mean... Does the average commoner or even the average Peer who is not a House Sword or a Voice or a Head of a family actually know the traditions and details of heirloom weapons and what House Swords actually are? There hasn't been a House Sword versus House Sword honor duel to the death for quite some time. It's not as if we are exactly commonly employed within the public sphere.
Written By Arik
Oct. 13, 2018, 10:03 p.m.(10/10/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Cambria
Do the Gods accept the wagers of those with no right to make them?
If I were to go before Gloria and bet my sisters life on a duel and lose. Would she be enthralled? Would she be executed? I had no right to wager Khanne's life, but because we declared it before Gloria all reason must be lost?
If I were to go before Gloria and bet my sisters life on a duel and lose. Would she be enthralled? Would she be executed? I had no right to wager Khanne's life, but because we declared it before Gloria all reason must be lost?
Written By Arik
Oct. 13, 2018, 9:38 p.m.(10/10/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Aleksei
Traditions define our society.
Use champions to settle duels, it's a tradition.
Use Whispers or the Faith to mediate disputes, it's a tradition.
Marriages are meant to be practical not love matches for the Peerage, it's a tradition.
Hierloom weapons belong to the House, not the Sword that carries it, it's a tradition.
Holdings belong to the House, not the Head of House at the time, it's a tradition.
If some head of house tried to abdicate their families claim to a holding, their family would have every right to ignore that and assert their rights. That is exactly what has happened here. Someone has done something they could not do and the family is asserting their rights over Vowkeeper.
Use champions to settle duels, it's a tradition.
Use Whispers or the Faith to mediate disputes, it's a tradition.
Marriages are meant to be practical not love matches for the Peerage, it's a tradition.
Hierloom weapons belong to the House, not the Sword that carries it, it's a tradition.
Holdings belong to the House, not the Head of House at the time, it's a tradition.
If some head of house tried to abdicate their families claim to a holding, their family would have every right to ignore that and assert their rights. That is exactly what has happened here. Someone has done something they could not do and the family is asserting their rights over Vowkeeper.
Written By Arik
Oct. 13, 2018, 7:10 p.m.(10/10/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Bliss
If one person cannot give away the heirloom that is not theirs than two people cannot do it either. House Swords fall with their Houses. Holdings fall with their Houses. Should House Telmar ever be annihilated, disenfranchised from the Peerage, or you raised an army and crushed them in battle. Than mayhap you would have the spoils of war claim to the House Sword. The Spirits and Gods both know -many- heirloom blades have histories of battle and bloodshed. Frostfang itself was taken from an Everwinter shav king known as Golkir. You defeated one member of a house and another was foolish. You did not defeat House Telmar.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.