Written By Piccola
April 19, 2021, 3:33 p.m.(4/27/1015 AR)
Recent events have caused me to reflect on something I wrote earlier, wise general.
To win one hundred victories in one hundred battles is not the acme of skill; it is the ability to subdue the enemy without fighting.
To win one hundred victories in one hundred battles is not the acme of skill; it is the ability to subdue the enemy without fighting.
Written By Giada
April 19, 2021, 3:26 p.m.(4/27/1015 AR)
"Spring does not become summer. Summer does not become autumn. First, there is spring, and then there is summer."
Written by a long dead philosopher, this is rather prettily worded way of saying what exists only exists for the now. In the next moment, everything has changed. Are you the same person you were even 15 minutes ago, or are you someone else than that person was?
Food for Reflection.
Written by a long dead philosopher, this is rather prettily worded way of saying what exists only exists for the now. In the next moment, everything has changed. Are you the same person you were even 15 minutes ago, or are you someone else than that person was?
Food for Reflection.
Written By Sabella
April 19, 2021, 3:12 p.m.(4/27/1015 AR)
For those who might care, or simply wish to have fodder for the gossip mill, I write this journal as a FORMER disciple of Jayus and one who worked tirelessly to help make that discipleship stand. I write this journal as one who has done fundraising to rebuild the cathedral I watched burn, that I prayed for rain to save and rain came. I write this journal as someone who has donated a total of two million silver to the Knights of Solace, and over a million silver each to the Disciples of Jayus and to the Faith directly.
I wrote a letter to Dominus Aureth expressing my concern as a disciple about the dismissal of Brigida from the position of Archlector and the provenance of the funds being used to smooth over any dishonor to Princess-Consort Alarissa and house Thrax. My concerns were summarily dismissed, informing me that my advocacy for Brigida is kind but comes without understanding. Yes! That is an understanding I was hoping to gain through my inquiry! Further, I was advised to turn my attention to my own house, "rather than making assumptions about matters entirely internal to the Faith." I realize that as a noble disciple, I did not hold the same bearing as a Godsworn member of the Faith, however, I had thought that my inquiry might be answered.
I will take the dominus' thoughtful suggestion, as I informed him, and focus upon my house and my people. I will turn my efforts toward the Crownlands and support the Crafter's Guild as I continue to honor Jayus and the Pantheon. As the dominus further elaborated, I was free to consider myself excused from my duty as a disciple - and so I have taken my leave.
Dearest members of the Compact, I suddenly find myself with more time on my hands, with more ability to help others. Do let me know if I can support your goals.
I wrote a letter to Dominus Aureth expressing my concern as a disciple about the dismissal of Brigida from the position of Archlector and the provenance of the funds being used to smooth over any dishonor to Princess-Consort Alarissa and house Thrax. My concerns were summarily dismissed, informing me that my advocacy for Brigida is kind but comes without understanding. Yes! That is an understanding I was hoping to gain through my inquiry! Further, I was advised to turn my attention to my own house, "rather than making assumptions about matters entirely internal to the Faith." I realize that as a noble disciple, I did not hold the same bearing as a Godsworn member of the Faith, however, I had thought that my inquiry might be answered.
I will take the dominus' thoughtful suggestion, as I informed him, and focus upon my house and my people. I will turn my efforts toward the Crownlands and support the Crafter's Guild as I continue to honor Jayus and the Pantheon. As the dominus further elaborated, I was free to consider myself excused from my duty as a disciple - and so I have taken my leave.
Dearest members of the Compact, I suddenly find myself with more time on my hands, with more ability to help others. Do let me know if I can support your goals.
Written By Orland
April 19, 2021, 1:16 p.m.(4/27/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Aindre
Thoughts of a potential... differences, experiences, shared wisdom and ... maybe a mentor...
I only met his Highness, once, when he came to the Bard College. Yet, his message on the classifieds aid caused me to fire back a missive to him about the subject matter. I dare say, I let my quill fly across that page.
Upon sharing to one another, openly, I've been able to learn the perspectives of someone who was born to his station. I have come to respect how he writes to me and how encouraging his letters are, even if the last was quite a novel in itself. I was always one for reading. What I ultimately respect, is the fact that he was understanding, reflective, and gave my words weight where perhaps he didn't have to. Here is a man who will listen, who does hold value of discussion, debate, and those who have merit, as well as those who follow traditions. Here is a man who I would give many hours too, so I could learn more perspectives of this dream, than that which I carry.
Maybe I'll get that opportunity, soon.
I only met his Highness, once, when he came to the Bard College. Yet, his message on the classifieds aid caused me to fire back a missive to him about the subject matter. I dare say, I let my quill fly across that page.
Upon sharing to one another, openly, I've been able to learn the perspectives of someone who was born to his station. I have come to respect how he writes to me and how encouraging his letters are, even if the last was quite a novel in itself. I was always one for reading. What I ultimately respect, is the fact that he was understanding, reflective, and gave my words weight where perhaps he didn't have to. Here is a man who will listen, who does hold value of discussion, debate, and those who have merit, as well as those who follow traditions. Here is a man who I would give many hours too, so I could learn more perspectives of this dream, than that which I carry.
Maybe I'll get that opportunity, soon.
Written By Orland
April 19, 2021, 12:43 p.m.(4/27/1015 AR)
Thoughts of a student... on leaders, on respect ... earning it versus demanding it...
I know, simply because you have a title, doesn't mean people will respect you while you wear it. A bow, a smile, praises, these can be taught and faked. A title given, is one that can be taken away. Most of all I know that. Respect is earned and never demanded. I am a mere student of leadership and I would never claim to know all the ways, but if you are acting superior to all others, then at least there should be a council granted to you, if you know not the ways of how to respond.
I have gained much, and dwell upon the responsibilities of my station. Even now, I can see that some people may ne naturally inclined to despise me for what I have and what they want. But I should not hold ire to them, for their looks.
Mindfully, in other more hopeful strides, I took in an old lady from the Lowers, her name is Laurin. She was sleeping in a hovel about to be taken down for better development. She was frail, hungry, cold. Her knees are bothersome and she had no family. Last night, she slept in comfort, like a queen. She had all the food and comfort and joys she could hope for. She also told me stories about her past, what had caused her to fall into such a despair. I'd like to think she has family now, with House Amadeo, and perhaps when she's stronger she can manage the trip to Bravura. It's in the small decisions like this, that I think can make an impact, and perhaps, that I hope I can be a good leader too, someday... earning it, not demanding it.
I know, simply because you have a title, doesn't mean people will respect you while you wear it. A bow, a smile, praises, these can be taught and faked. A title given, is one that can be taken away. Most of all I know that. Respect is earned and never demanded. I am a mere student of leadership and I would never claim to know all the ways, but if you are acting superior to all others, then at least there should be a council granted to you, if you know not the ways of how to respond.
I have gained much, and dwell upon the responsibilities of my station. Even now, I can see that some people may ne naturally inclined to despise me for what I have and what they want. But I should not hold ire to them, for their looks.
Mindfully, in other more hopeful strides, I took in an old lady from the Lowers, her name is Laurin. She was sleeping in a hovel about to be taken down for better development. She was frail, hungry, cold. Her knees are bothersome and she had no family. Last night, she slept in comfort, like a queen. She had all the food and comfort and joys she could hope for. She also told me stories about her past, what had caused her to fall into such a despair. I'd like to think she has family now, with House Amadeo, and perhaps when she's stronger she can manage the trip to Bravura. It's in the small decisions like this, that I think can make an impact, and perhaps, that I hope I can be a good leader too, someday... earning it, not demanding it.
Written By Preston
April 19, 2021, 12:30 p.m.(4/27/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Thena
Dear Little Sister,
It has been....well, I lost track of the months and years, you work it out. Anyway, it has been sometime since you and half my friends went off on your mission. I am not sure if I am more upset that you left me behind, or that the small group of you constituted at least half my friends. I think mostly I miss you all. We have finished refurbishments to the siege yard at the Templar Compound, and I think how much fun Esoka would have had there with Ida. Or how much you would have enjoyed the Laurent joust where - continuing my usual poor form in such things - I was put on my rear in one pass on the tilt by Baron Norwood.
The city is both changing, and also as it ever was. I have had a lot of time to think about change of late, both because of the events in the Faith but also in all else that has gone on. People seem to confuse it. They think anything that is old must be bad, and all that is new is good. Rather, it seems that we must use what is old to inform us where we must go next, what change is necessary to get to the place we will be. The journey we are on.
The Templar numbers are rebuilt after Sungreet, and yes I took an arrow in the shoulder there. I can hear you and Esoka chuckling from here. Though at least Esoka will have the good grace to be embarrassed by her amusement at it. I kept thinking in the battle 'If only a small knight were charging through here with a dagger in her hand, it would all be better'. But now we face the next hurdle as summer comes upon us. The next campaigning season. The blade is as honed as it will be, we must just hope it drives deep enough and ends the threat - or you will find the wilds of Arvum that you tread to be busy as we flee ahead of the Eurusi.
Sorry I should be more cheerful. Though I can at times hear your gruff agreement with me on things. It always struck me as strange, and what people never understood - that the two of us with different views and backgrounds could agree on so much, and disagree, and become so trusting of one another. I know that in the darkest moment you will all come back to us if needed. I hope that we can do our best to never require that, to give you all the time you need to do what you do. And I hope, one day, to return to us with great stories.
Did I ever tell you we have a very large goat now? We call him Jeffers. You'd like him. He's stubborn and eats the occasional hat.
Ever your brother,
Preston
It has been....well, I lost track of the months and years, you work it out. Anyway, it has been sometime since you and half my friends went off on your mission. I am not sure if I am more upset that you left me behind, or that the small group of you constituted at least half my friends. I think mostly I miss you all. We have finished refurbishments to the siege yard at the Templar Compound, and I think how much fun Esoka would have had there with Ida. Or how much you would have enjoyed the Laurent joust where - continuing my usual poor form in such things - I was put on my rear in one pass on the tilt by Baron Norwood.
The city is both changing, and also as it ever was. I have had a lot of time to think about change of late, both because of the events in the Faith but also in all else that has gone on. People seem to confuse it. They think anything that is old must be bad, and all that is new is good. Rather, it seems that we must use what is old to inform us where we must go next, what change is necessary to get to the place we will be. The journey we are on.
The Templar numbers are rebuilt after Sungreet, and yes I took an arrow in the shoulder there. I can hear you and Esoka chuckling from here. Though at least Esoka will have the good grace to be embarrassed by her amusement at it. I kept thinking in the battle 'If only a small knight were charging through here with a dagger in her hand, it would all be better'. But now we face the next hurdle as summer comes upon us. The next campaigning season. The blade is as honed as it will be, we must just hope it drives deep enough and ends the threat - or you will find the wilds of Arvum that you tread to be busy as we flee ahead of the Eurusi.
Sorry I should be more cheerful. Though I can at times hear your gruff agreement with me on things. It always struck me as strange, and what people never understood - that the two of us with different views and backgrounds could agree on so much, and disagree, and become so trusting of one another. I know that in the darkest moment you will all come back to us if needed. I hope that we can do our best to never require that, to give you all the time you need to do what you do. And I hope, one day, to return to us with great stories.
Did I ever tell you we have a very large goat now? We call him Jeffers. You'd like him. He's stubborn and eats the occasional hat.
Ever your brother,
Preston
Written By Tanith
April 19, 2021, 11:32 a.m.(4/27/1015 AR)
Do you know what feeling, scholar? When you're certain you feel many voices talking about you all at once?
It's a strange feeling.
Maybe my hidden collection of books has finally been discovered. Yes, that must be it.
It's a strange feeling.
Maybe my hidden collection of books has finally been discovered. Yes, that must be it.
Written By Preston
April 19, 2021, 6:42 a.m.(4/26/1015 AR)
Templars are in every domain of the Compact - and raised from every domain, every parish. It is one of the first things the Seraphs will recruit among their flock, those who are devoted and will protect the Faith in their lands. Trained by dispatched Godsworn knights, and Templars from neighbouring more established parishes to help bolster initial numbers, it is the foundation of a strong and faithful land.
We go where we are needed by the requirements of the Faith, which from time to time is to support the sufficiently pious noble houses in defence of lands against threats from beyond the Compact.
For those worried about the Templars stretching themselves, well. It is true we have many commitments across Arvum. But do not worry, as I say, we are in every domain and from every domain. Each individual rain drop is small, but across a large area? They are a flood.
We go where we are needed by the requirements of the Faith, which from time to time is to support the sufficiently pious noble houses in defence of lands against threats from beyond the Compact.
For those worried about the Templars stretching themselves, well. It is true we have many commitments across Arvum. But do not worry, as I say, we are in every domain and from every domain. Each individual rain drop is small, but across a large area? They are a flood.
Written By Medeia
April 19, 2021, 12:19 a.m.(4/26/1015 AR)
In recent months, Eswynd has accomplished the task of bringing in a new vassal - the barony of Norrock Vorod, an isle near to Eswyndol. The Prodigals of house Norrock are ruled by Baron Janos Norrock. His father, who had made the decision to join his people to the Compact, was killed by Arvani sailors of house Asterales on the way to officially kneel. His son accepted the mantle of responsibility on behalf of his people. Some reading this journal may be unfamiliar with Asterales, so I will explain: A daughter of Ivan Helianthus was married to Igor Asterales. Following in Ivan's wake, the house has taken up arms against Thrax and those loyal to their liege. Under the leadership of Igor, Asterales ships harried our trade routes, disrupted our supplies, and killed our people. The man looked me in the eye and threatened to drag me through the streets to teach me a lesson for laying with a dog once he succeeded in killing my husband. I am happy to report that he failed on all measures, there. This is the hatred that is emboldened when prejudice against Prodigals is left unchecked.
Representatives of Eswynd and Tyde, along with some allies from Kennex, Amadeo, and Leporidae took a voyage to Norrock Vorod in the hopes of checking in to ensure they're doing well, introduce them to some others of the Compact, and generally continue to build our relationship after years of rivalry between Eswynd and Norrock. This peaceful gathering of Compact citizens was disrupted by ships flying no colors storming the shore and immediately setting in to slaughter the people of Norrock and raze their homes. Amidst shouts of "kill the heathen Shavs," I sought shelter until they were turned away and fled back to sea. Perhaps they were from Asterales. Perhaps they were from some other house that followed the traitor Ivan Helianthus. All I know is that people who had sworn oaths to their liege and their liege's liege and so on up to Thrax have broken those oaths. They have turned against their fellow Islanders.
In the hours after the attack, I tended the wounded and had the assistance of Duchess Margot - teaching her as much as I could given the circumstances. Others aided in putting out fires, clearing debris, doing repairs, and more. Yet, hours later, the air was still filled with the sound of screaming. Mine. Our children had decided they could wait no longer and were delivered to me and Haakon by Baron Janos's mother - Lady Olga - with the aid of Harlequin Zoey, right in the hall of Norrock. It was not the way I expected to welcome them, but I am thrilled that they seem to be perfectly healthy and strong. And that their first breaths were of sea air in the Isles. They are children of the Compact, and they are already beloved by many. Welcome home Miklos and Savja, and Baron Janos and the people of Norrock Vorod.
Representatives of Eswynd and Tyde, along with some allies from Kennex, Amadeo, and Leporidae took a voyage to Norrock Vorod in the hopes of checking in to ensure they're doing well, introduce them to some others of the Compact, and generally continue to build our relationship after years of rivalry between Eswynd and Norrock. This peaceful gathering of Compact citizens was disrupted by ships flying no colors storming the shore and immediately setting in to slaughter the people of Norrock and raze their homes. Amidst shouts of "kill the heathen Shavs," I sought shelter until they were turned away and fled back to sea. Perhaps they were from Asterales. Perhaps they were from some other house that followed the traitor Ivan Helianthus. All I know is that people who had sworn oaths to their liege and their liege's liege and so on up to Thrax have broken those oaths. They have turned against their fellow Islanders.
In the hours after the attack, I tended the wounded and had the assistance of Duchess Margot - teaching her as much as I could given the circumstances. Others aided in putting out fires, clearing debris, doing repairs, and more. Yet, hours later, the air was still filled with the sound of screaming. Mine. Our children had decided they could wait no longer and were delivered to me and Haakon by Baron Janos's mother - Lady Olga - with the aid of Harlequin Zoey, right in the hall of Norrock. It was not the way I expected to welcome them, but I am thrilled that they seem to be perfectly healthy and strong. And that their first breaths were of sea air in the Isles. They are children of the Compact, and they are already beloved by many. Welcome home Miklos and Savja, and Baron Janos and the people of Norrock Vorod.
Written By Raja
April 18, 2021, 10:24 p.m.(4/25/1015 AR)
I had a very good team helping to clear out the folk in the are where the new library will be built. An older woman was taken to better places. A family was offered work elsewhere. There was a madman I hear.. but he disappeared deeper into the Lowers. I am sure we will hear from him again.
Written By Jaenelle
April 18, 2021, 10:05 p.m.(4/25/1015 AR)
Prince Noah Grayson is not as bad as he believes himself to be. In fact, he is a delightful companion. When there is no one else available.
Written By Giada
April 18, 2021, 9:37 p.m.(4/25/1015 AR)
I really don't mess with this often, but regarding the recent spat between Leporidae and the Faith/Faithful, I simply invite anyone confused about Silent Reflections to approach the Shrine in which they serve.
And while we Mirrormasks applaud courage to speak your mind when it's unpopular, it's fair to remind people that they're being watched by the Compact -and- our enemies. At a certain point, being cute brings results... just not always good ones.
And while we Mirrormasks applaud courage to speak your mind when it's unpopular, it's fair to remind people that they're being watched by the Compact -and- our enemies. At a certain point, being cute brings results... just not always good ones.
Written By Aelgar
April 18, 2021, 9:09 p.m.(4/25/1015 AR)
I am speaking with the Faith leadership about taking up more responsibility amongst the Scholars. This is not motivated by a desire to be more important or powerful. If it were, I would question myself for a very long time. I need to learn more of how things work and I want to learn more about how I can be an instrument of Their will. I feel I need to explore this even though my own preference would be to bury myself in my stidies--in spite of that, really. Because of that. I have to burn away my own wants. Best to do this my pushing my comfort zone.
Written By Raven
April 18, 2021, 9:05 p.m.(4/25/1015 AR)
One of these days I will temper my temper instead of alienating the more insightful and wise of my companions. Today is not that day.
Written By Giada
April 18, 2021, 9 p.m.(4/25/1015 AR)
The Physicians Guild flotilla will be sailing soon. These cogs are important. Not just because they carry supplies or patients, but because they are the culmination of hard work performed by many hands. The design was adapted by the shipwrights of Blackshore, built not only by them but by Thrax and Eswynd. For their generosity and willingness to innovate, I am in their debt.
The hardest part of a quartermaster's job lies in turning potentialities into preparation. The QM needs to know that the line can push through and make it with the necessary supplies, and hopefully that ship or caravan makes it back out for the next leg. These cogs were the beginning of a dream to make that effort more effective and reliable. If they succeed, then we've a substantial leg up on that.
As quartermaster, I've done my best. As a human being, I pray it was enough.
The hardest part of a quartermaster's job lies in turning potentialities into preparation. The QM needs to know that the line can push through and make it with the necessary supplies, and hopefully that ship or caravan makes it back out for the next leg. These cogs were the beginning of a dream to make that effort more effective and reliable. If they succeed, then we've a substantial leg up on that.
As quartermaster, I've done my best. As a human being, I pray it was enough.
Written By Kastelon
April 18, 2021, 8:53 p.m.(4/25/1015 AR)
It seems the latest archery contest is going to have to wait for another day, I fear. My best shot was before our unofficial competition began, when I was warming up, but I think I comported myself well enough throughout that I've little fear of embarrassing my family when the real thing happens.
And for good fortune, I shall not be cooking for the associated contest there as well. No risk of culinary threats from me.
Now, all this said, it has been quite a while since I raced Bessie...I wonder if there's thought to another cow Grand Prix...
And for good fortune, I shall not be cooking for the associated contest there as well. No risk of culinary threats from me.
Now, all this said, it has been quite a while since I raced Bessie...I wonder if there's thought to another cow Grand Prix...
Written By Piccola
April 18, 2021, 8:43 p.m.(4/25/1015 AR)
I have a story for you.
I once dreamt that I was a cat, wandering and hunting as they do. I was only aware of my happiness as a cat, unaware that I was a woman. Soon, I awakened, and I was a woman once more. But now I do not know whether I was then a woman dreaming she was a butterfly or I am now a cat dreaming that she is a woman.
That is how I became who I am now, wise general.
It matters not who I am now or what I was; all that matters is the now. Now, I am in the city; now, I am a general; now, I am a voice. Whether I dream or play pretend is immaterial; all that matters is what I make of what is before me, with every ounce of effort and moment of time cast within that role, the one I have elected to choose by surrendering to death.
Pondering whether one is aware or not is a waste of time.
I once dreamt that I was a cat, wandering and hunting as they do. I was only aware of my happiness as a cat, unaware that I was a woman. Soon, I awakened, and I was a woman once more. But now I do not know whether I was then a woman dreaming she was a butterfly or I am now a cat dreaming that she is a woman.
That is how I became who I am now, wise general.
It matters not who I am now or what I was; all that matters is the now. Now, I am in the city; now, I am a general; now, I am a voice. Whether I dream or play pretend is immaterial; all that matters is what I make of what is before me, with every ounce of effort and moment of time cast within that role, the one I have elected to choose by surrendering to death.
Pondering whether one is aware or not is a waste of time.
Written By Cirroch
April 18, 2021, 7:47 p.m.(4/25/1015 AR)
Things that one doesn't realize that they will miss until the manor is quiet. The pitter of feet sneaking up. The sound of a plushie being dragged behind a toddler that is trying to command their siblings. Cake wars exploding only because their mother sets them to it before dinner.
Written By Kiera
April 18, 2021, 7:40 p.m.(4/25/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Aureth
the new dominus seems to have a good head on his shoulders
Written By Ida
April 18, 2021, 7:17 p.m.(4/25/1015 AR)
I uphold the oaths I have made, regardless of whether or not people treat me well for it. I am treated like a commoner because, guess what? I am a commoner. I am often looked upon with respect due to my trade, or maybe because I probably can still throw a good punch. When I'm not given respect in my shop, I kindly suggest the offender might do better with another smith. It has taken me a decade to be where I am today in Arx, and that was after nearly a decade already put in around the Oathlands.
I don't need to make a fuss because someone thinks less of me, or believes that I'm beneath them. That opinion doesn't make my swords any less deadly, my fist any less strong, or my integrity in need of question. Again, I uphold the oaths I have made, even if someone questions my place in this world. Actions speak louder than words.
At least, they should.
I don't need to make a fuss because someone thinks less of me, or believes that I'm beneath them. That opinion doesn't make my swords any less deadly, my fist any less strong, or my integrity in need of question. Again, I uphold the oaths I have made, even if someone questions my place in this world. Actions speak louder than words.
At least, they should.
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