Written By Ann
Nov. 18, 2023, 10:44 p.m.(3/19/1021 AR)
Relationship Note on Darren
I see you, cousin mine. Thank you for showing up and letting me see your lightness. Even if it was ever brief. I haven't forgotten.
Written By Renata
Nov. 18, 2023, 3:25 p.m.(3/19/1021 AR)
I sang a lullaby... No. Let me start over, this needs further explanation. They might think me mad if it wasn't for the others who did an amazing job in calming and protecting the squirrels and farms.
I didn't go to the Oathlands thinking that I would be singing for a trio of squirrels. Nor did I think they would be throwing nuts at those of us which showed up. Nor did I think I would see Champion Caspian Wild riding upon back of a squirrel as if it was a horse. Nor did I expect to see an expertly sewn costume of acorn to be created then ran within to give chase for said squirrels...
There was a lot that I did not think I would witness within the Oathlands on this visit.
However, it was pleasing to see those from all walks of life, from many fealties coming together to work into a solution which did not involve harming the unusually large rodents with bushy tails. They were far too fluffy and adorable. Aside from when they were throwing nuts at us.
I didn't go to the Oathlands thinking that I would be singing for a trio of squirrels. Nor did I think they would be throwing nuts at those of us which showed up. Nor did I think I would see Champion Caspian Wild riding upon back of a squirrel as if it was a horse. Nor did I expect to see an expertly sewn costume of acorn to be created then ran within to give chase for said squirrels...
There was a lot that I did not think I would witness within the Oathlands on this visit.
However, it was pleasing to see those from all walks of life, from many fealties coming together to work into a solution which did not involve harming the unusually large rodents with bushy tails. They were far too fluffy and adorable. Aside from when they were throwing nuts at us.
Written By Mabelle
Nov. 18, 2023, 10:55 a.m.(3/18/1021 AR)
Roses are red,
Violets are blue.
Bees prefer blue flowers,
Stop sending me roses.
Violets are blue.
Bees prefer blue flowers,
Stop sending me roses.
Written By Mabelle
Nov. 18, 2023, 10:54 a.m.(3/18/1021 AR)
Relationship Note on Amari
I think I speak on behalf of all of us when I say: Be careful what you wish for.
Written By Aelgar
Nov. 18, 2023, 9:09 a.m.(3/18/1021 AR)
I am planning on a trip to the isles even though Giada has resources for this. i may want to see a couple things in person.
Written By Vashtalyn
Nov. 18, 2023, 8:33 a.m.(3/18/1021 AR)
The rumors of the rodents of unusual size are indeed true! But, there is no cause for alarm. All has been handled by a group of brave adventurers. I did my part! I created a rather convincing costume of a large nut with some various supplies offered by the very clever Acacia Culler, and apparently it was convincing enough! We managed to lure one of the squirrels out of the barn with Caspian riding on its back, while others contrived to get them to chase themselves by sticking nuts to them with honey. One squirrel fell asleep, along with several members of our heroic group. Still not sure how all that happened. Then, the squirrels returned to their normal size.
In a nutshell, no squirrels were harmed in the course of this adventure, though I may have made one really mad with my fake nut costume. I cannot say the humans fared so well. But in the end, nobody died and the threat was neutralized, and that's what's important! Perhaps squirrel-herding is a skill we may all wish to invest in learning if this is what's in store for the future?
In a nutshell, no squirrels were harmed in the course of this adventure, though I may have made one really mad with my fake nut costume. I cannot say the humans fared so well. But in the end, nobody died and the threat was neutralized, and that's what's important! Perhaps squirrel-herding is a skill we may all wish to invest in learning if this is what's in store for the future?
Written By Duarte
Nov. 18, 2023, 3:41 a.m.(3/18/1021 AR)
Journal
As Minister of Information and Safety, I quite literally became the Duke's eyes and ears. I was tasked with safeguarding the House from internal and external threats. It was a role I embraced with both trepidation and excitement. It is unfortunate, looking back, at just how frequently my work would not be acted upon by the loveable Duke despite the urgings of his best advisors.
Unexpectedly, my new position gave me the unique opportunity to come to know the Duke's family. I would often meet with him around about noon in his study. Elonso, Nicia, Belladonna, Celeste, Allegra, and later, Renata. Each of them was a distinct personality, a complex tapestry woven from the threads of their upbringing, their ambitions, and the inescapable legacy of House Pravus.
Belladonna, the eldest, was a study in contradictions. She possessed a shrewd and calculating mind, perfectly capable of engaging in the ruthless political games that defined the Lyceum. Yet, there was a part of her that yearned to be different. She wished to honor her father's legacy of kindness and generosity - and did in her way. But she knew better than he the realities of the world. Watching her navigate the treacherous waters of court intrigue while maintaining a semblance of moral integrity was fascinating. Her actions often left many bewildered - unsure whether to fear or admire her.
Celeste was a rebellious sort. She always seemed to chafe under the weight of expectations. Her willfulness was the stuff of court gossip. Her defiance was not aimless. It seemed her way of carving out an identity uniquely her own. She was one that refused to be molded into a convenient shape.
Allegra, the youngest, was the scholar. She found solace in books, and a refuge from the pressures of her noble birth. Her intellect was sharp and her wit even sharper. I often found her insights on various subjects, from philosophy to economics, both profound and enlightening.
Then there was Renata, the adopted one. She brought a sense of calm and compassion to the often cutthroat environment. Her aversion to violence and her gentle nature were a balm to the often jaded souls around her. Renata had a way of seeing the good in people, a trait that made her beloved among the citizens of Setarco.
Nicia, always the pragmatist. She was impressive with her methodical approach to problems. Her debates and arguments were legendary. She had the ability to detach emotion from her professional life. Yet, in private, she was a completely different person - lively, passionate, and full of energy.
Elonso, the charming and likable son. He had a knack for making everyone feel important and heard. His sincere interest in people and their stories made him a favorite among courtiers and commoners alike. But I shan't say too much good about an eventual traitor.
I found myself becoming more than just an observer. As I built a rapport with the family - though I was really just a servant and an orphan - I couldn't help but come to regard them as my own. Anyone who's worked a House in any sort of stewardship, I'm sure, can relate. Ever the outsider, you can't help but feel drawn to your charges. To see them and begin to care for them as a family of your own. To forge a love so fierce and steadfast that you would step outside yourself to protect them. That sense of duty molds itself so quickly into a righteous sense of loyalty. One that does not abate.
Always ambitious without direction, it was here that I found a sense of purpose. I was no longer climbing a ladder just to climb it. I was a minister, a confidant, and a guardian of one of the most powerful houses in the Compact. They taught me about the nuances of power, the importance of perception, and the delicate balance between ambition and integrity.
As Minister of Information and Safety, I quite literally became the Duke's eyes and ears. I was tasked with safeguarding the House from internal and external threats. It was a role I embraced with both trepidation and excitement. It is unfortunate, looking back, at just how frequently my work would not be acted upon by the loveable Duke despite the urgings of his best advisors.
Unexpectedly, my new position gave me the unique opportunity to come to know the Duke's family. I would often meet with him around about noon in his study. Elonso, Nicia, Belladonna, Celeste, Allegra, and later, Renata. Each of them was a distinct personality, a complex tapestry woven from the threads of their upbringing, their ambitions, and the inescapable legacy of House Pravus.
Belladonna, the eldest, was a study in contradictions. She possessed a shrewd and calculating mind, perfectly capable of engaging in the ruthless political games that defined the Lyceum. Yet, there was a part of her that yearned to be different. She wished to honor her father's legacy of kindness and generosity - and did in her way. But she knew better than he the realities of the world. Watching her navigate the treacherous waters of court intrigue while maintaining a semblance of moral integrity was fascinating. Her actions often left many bewildered - unsure whether to fear or admire her.
Celeste was a rebellious sort. She always seemed to chafe under the weight of expectations. Her willfulness was the stuff of court gossip. Her defiance was not aimless. It seemed her way of carving out an identity uniquely her own. She was one that refused to be molded into a convenient shape.
Allegra, the youngest, was the scholar. She found solace in books, and a refuge from the pressures of her noble birth. Her intellect was sharp and her wit even sharper. I often found her insights on various subjects, from philosophy to economics, both profound and enlightening.
Then there was Renata, the adopted one. She brought a sense of calm and compassion to the often cutthroat environment. Her aversion to violence and her gentle nature were a balm to the often jaded souls around her. Renata had a way of seeing the good in people, a trait that made her beloved among the citizens of Setarco.
Nicia, always the pragmatist. She was impressive with her methodical approach to problems. Her debates and arguments were legendary. She had the ability to detach emotion from her professional life. Yet, in private, she was a completely different person - lively, passionate, and full of energy.
Elonso, the charming and likable son. He had a knack for making everyone feel important and heard. His sincere interest in people and their stories made him a favorite among courtiers and commoners alike. But I shan't say too much good about an eventual traitor.
I found myself becoming more than just an observer. As I built a rapport with the family - though I was really just a servant and an orphan - I couldn't help but come to regard them as my own. Anyone who's worked a House in any sort of stewardship, I'm sure, can relate. Ever the outsider, you can't help but feel drawn to your charges. To see them and begin to care for them as a family of your own. To forge a love so fierce and steadfast that you would step outside yourself to protect them. That sense of duty molds itself so quickly into a righteous sense of loyalty. One that does not abate.
Always ambitious without direction, it was here that I found a sense of purpose. I was no longer climbing a ladder just to climb it. I was a minister, a confidant, and a guardian of one of the most powerful houses in the Compact. They taught me about the nuances of power, the importance of perception, and the delicate balance between ambition and integrity.
Written By Caspian
Nov. 18, 2023, 1:01 a.m.(3/17/1021 AR)
recent encounters with a squirrel larger than any horse have once more filled me wioth the hope that perhaps one day..one day i might be able to find a way to ride a bear!
Written By Caspian
Nov. 18, 2023, 12:56 a.m.(3/17/1021 AR)
I look forward to the first annual running of the Nuts we will host in Arx!
Written By Theo
Nov. 18, 2023, 12:51 a.m.(3/17/1021 AR)
Decided to go help in that squirrel business. What I didn't count on was to be able to avoid the nuts that went flying. That was a win, win for me. What wasn't a win was I fell asleep hard in the middle of the action. All I remember is listening to people sing and nodding off. Only to wake up cause I had a squirrel chasing after me. Huge one.
Was I dreaming? Was that real life?
Gods, what a story. I will have to ask around and see what other people's experience was like. Or you know, just laugh at myself.
Was I dreaming? Was that real life?
Gods, what a story. I will have to ask around and see what other people's experience was like. Or you know, just laugh at myself.
Written By Medeia
Nov. 17, 2023, 10:39 a.m.(3/16/1021 AR)
It can feel so much safer to keep your feelings and desires locked away within you, but inevitably? These things have a way of leaking out and being known - or at least guessed at - by other people. They are betrayed by the words you choose, the looks you give, the time you spend, the company you keep, the gifts you bestow. To admit them is to be vulnerable. Letting others have access to those emotional parts of you will leave you open to exploitation. They might dangle the thing you want in front of you like a carrot before a mule, manipulating you into serving their own wants with the promise of yours to be fulfilled soon.
It has happened to me, before, plenty of times. I always prefer to believe that the best parts of people will triumph. I prefer to believe that being vulnerable creates shared strength as opposed to cruel opportunity. The double-edged sword of our humanity is that we are capable of both creating previously unimaginable beauty and devastating horror. To be open-hearted is to invite both in, to experience the world and the people around you as multi-faceted and complex.
And sometimes, we simply must confess what is in our hearts before it is too late. It is impossible to know what might be if you do not give it a chance to be. We might all have the lives we dream of at our fingertips and not even know it. We might even have the permission and support of others required to pursue something if we simply give voice to what we feel.
I have permission.
It has happened to me, before, plenty of times. I always prefer to believe that the best parts of people will triumph. I prefer to believe that being vulnerable creates shared strength as opposed to cruel opportunity. The double-edged sword of our humanity is that we are capable of both creating previously unimaginable beauty and devastating horror. To be open-hearted is to invite both in, to experience the world and the people around you as multi-faceted and complex.
And sometimes, we simply must confess what is in our hearts before it is too late. It is impossible to know what might be if you do not give it a chance to be. We might all have the lives we dream of at our fingertips and not even know it. We might even have the permission and support of others required to pursue something if we simply give voice to what we feel.
I have permission.
Written By Ann
Nov. 17, 2023, 2:22 a.m.(3/15/1021 AR)
Relationship Note on Mattheu
It is always nice to go spend some time with my love and pretend we are not the people we are for just a little bit. I have missed that. We need to do these kind of things more often. Especially with the way our world is right now? We need to remember the important things. Such as love and who it is you wish to spend it with. I am glad I have my person. He makes me so happy. I know, I know, the court may say otherwise but it is nice to have this and will fight for whoever wishes to take it from me.
Jaenelle did a most excellent job with her Feast of Senses. I can't wait to see what will happen next year. She has not disappointed in all the times I have gone thus far.
Jaenelle did a most excellent job with her Feast of Senses. I can't wait to see what will happen next year. She has not disappointed in all the times I have gone thus far.
Written By Neviah
Nov. 16, 2023, 9 p.m.(3/15/1021 AR)
We are
Where we feed.
Where do you prey?
Whom do you worsen?
Where we feed.
Where do you prey?
Whom do you worsen?
Written By Giada
Nov. 16, 2023, 4:16 p.m.(3/15/1021 AR)
I'm so sick of the Abyss that I could vomit. Don't they ever take a day off?
Written By Preston
Nov. 16, 2023, 7:49 a.m.(3/14/1021 AR)
Honour and glory are often intertwined - perhaps because there is no greater glory than being honourable - and public honour does have its virtue, because in doing so others will see and may emulate your honourable behaviour. But they are not wholly the same. At times, it may well be more honourable to forgo glory - if by being diligent in your duties, honourable in your conduct but quiet in your execution you can avoid turning an incident into one where many more must die, then honour and glory have parted company. And you must always choose honour. Always.
In the end, our greatest hope as honourable warriors of Gloria, as those whose lives are filled with the sorrow of killing and death, must be to be forgotten - remembered perhaps as stories of times when we were needed recounted in a time where we are not. However, I do not know that such a world is possible. The nature of the light, of the Gods, is that by its existance we have shadow. And where there is shadow, we will always be to fight it with whatever we can.
In the end, our greatest hope as honourable warriors of Gloria, as those whose lives are filled with the sorrow of killing and death, must be to be forgotten - remembered perhaps as stories of times when we were needed recounted in a time where we are not. However, I do not know that such a world is possible. The nature of the light, of the Gods, is that by its existance we have shadow. And where there is shadow, we will always be to fight it with whatever we can.
Written By Neviah
Nov. 16, 2023, 12:11 a.m.(3/13/1021 AR)
Existing in this city:
Act like you belong there
And no one asks.
Cobwebbed places are opportunities.
Emptiness can fill emptiness.
Act like you belong there
And no one asks.
Cobwebbed places are opportunities.
Emptiness can fill emptiness.
Written By Medeia
Nov. 15, 2023, 12:23 p.m.(3/12/1021 AR)
Relationship Note on Cufre
The newest slate of the Commoners' Council has been announced, and I am impressed by the names!
There have been several pages of my whites dedicated to Cufre Harrow - for good reason. While it may be fair to accuse me of bias, as she is my protege, I assure the readers that she has earned every bit of praise I heap upon her. She is kind, conscientious, thorough, pious, creative, and just generally good company. I have no doubt that she will be an upstanding and capable voice for the people of the city. It is a joy to see her step into this new role, and I look forward to being an available resource to her - and the rest of the council - should support ever be wished for.
I have only previously met Messeres Publius and Nygard briefly, but their reputations suggest they will be valuable additions to the council. Caspian Wild and Raja Culler are both better known to me, and I am nearly as happy for their place on the council as I am for Cufre's - both are figures I have placed my trust in in the past and would do so again in the future.
May the gods guide them and smile upon all the people of Arx that they now serve.
There have been several pages of my whites dedicated to Cufre Harrow - for good reason. While it may be fair to accuse me of bias, as she is my protege, I assure the readers that she has earned every bit of praise I heap upon her. She is kind, conscientious, thorough, pious, creative, and just generally good company. I have no doubt that she will be an upstanding and capable voice for the people of the city. It is a joy to see her step into this new role, and I look forward to being an available resource to her - and the rest of the council - should support ever be wished for.
I have only previously met Messeres Publius and Nygard briefly, but their reputations suggest they will be valuable additions to the council. Caspian Wild and Raja Culler are both better known to me, and I am nearly as happy for their place on the council as I am for Cufre's - both are figures I have placed my trust in in the past and would do so again in the future.
May the gods guide them and smile upon all the people of Arx that they now serve.
Written By Duarte
Nov. 15, 2023, 3:08 a.m.(3/11/1021 AR)
Journal
The title cloaked me in a mantle of power and isolation. There was a transformation of myself from an observer of courtly intrigues to a key player in the most perilous games of the Lyceum. Completely aside from every other ambitious courtier having a target on my back, were the risks inherent in answering up to the other House ministers and the Duke himself. Whatever I thought of the courtiers and court, there was a whole elevated society with its own machinations. Here in this strata, what they lacked in cleverness and innuendo was made up for in power and raw influence.
The corridors of power, I learned, are not lined with gold but with shadows, and secrets. And with those came a gnawing solitude. No doubt my methods well learned and drilled served me well, but of necessity, I had to detach my true self further and further from those with whom I spoke - as the speaking was oftener than not to be to their detriment.
As Minister, I was privy to the whispers that echoed through court. They carried tales of ambition, deceit and sometimes desperation. It was my charge to sift through them and separate the truth from the fiction, to protect the House from unseen threats that lurk in Setarco's glittering facade.
Frequently I remember pondering Belinha's teachings. Her voice echoed in my mind often. As a boy, I was always so quick to judge character. I brought this naivete with me into Belinha's social circle. After one particular evening, I gabbed about the new acquaintances met, and how (as I recall) I rather liked them. "Every face you meet is a mask, Duarte."
In the labyrinth of power of the Lyceum - and Setarco in particular - each step is a gamble and trust is a currency in short supply.
The title cloaked me in a mantle of power and isolation. There was a transformation of myself from an observer of courtly intrigues to a key player in the most perilous games of the Lyceum. Completely aside from every other ambitious courtier having a target on my back, were the risks inherent in answering up to the other House ministers and the Duke himself. Whatever I thought of the courtiers and court, there was a whole elevated society with its own machinations. Here in this strata, what they lacked in cleverness and innuendo was made up for in power and raw influence.
The corridors of power, I learned, are not lined with gold but with shadows, and secrets. And with those came a gnawing solitude. No doubt my methods well learned and drilled served me well, but of necessity, I had to detach my true self further and further from those with whom I spoke - as the speaking was oftener than not to be to their detriment.
As Minister, I was privy to the whispers that echoed through court. They carried tales of ambition, deceit and sometimes desperation. It was my charge to sift through them and separate the truth from the fiction, to protect the House from unseen threats that lurk in Setarco's glittering facade.
Frequently I remember pondering Belinha's teachings. Her voice echoed in my mind often. As a boy, I was always so quick to judge character. I brought this naivete with me into Belinha's social circle. After one particular evening, I gabbed about the new acquaintances met, and how (as I recall) I rather liked them. "Every face you meet is a mask, Duarte."
In the labyrinth of power of the Lyceum - and Setarco in particular - each step is a gamble and trust is a currency in short supply.
Written By Vashtalyn
Nov. 14, 2023, 1:39 p.m.(3/10/1021 AR)
**This journal entry is simply a song, written in Arvani, Crownlands Shav'arvani, and Ravashari**
When chill and terror grip our hearts,
when all seems lost in darkness,
remember Hope, and sing her part,
a ray of Light, she harkens.
When moon rains red and stars go black,
when secrets unearthed do frighten,
with songs of Hope, win Freedom back,
and shackles shall be lightened.
Let the songs of Hope refrain
one Voice of Freedom's beacon,
What once was lost is now regained,
As Destiny's hold does weaken.
Let us not be ruled by fear,
Nor forbidden rites uncertain.
Remember Love and hold it dear,
This side of Life's bright curtain.
**At the bottom is the treble clef symbol of the Bard's College in gold leaf followed by the letters VA in a beautiful calligraphy**
When chill and terror grip our hearts,
when all seems lost in darkness,
remember Hope, and sing her part,
a ray of Light, she harkens.
When moon rains red and stars go black,
when secrets unearthed do frighten,
with songs of Hope, win Freedom back,
and shackles shall be lightened.
Let the songs of Hope refrain
one Voice of Freedom's beacon,
What once was lost is now regained,
As Destiny's hold does weaken.
Let us not be ruled by fear,
Nor forbidden rites uncertain.
Remember Love and hold it dear,
This side of Life's bright curtain.
**At the bottom is the treble clef symbol of the Bard's College in gold leaf followed by the letters VA in a beautiful calligraphy**
Written By Medeia
Nov. 14, 2023, 9:46 a.m.(3/10/1021 AR)
I had wondered if I should still hold a birthday celebration for Baroness Lucita, my sister, and myself, given how unsettled so many things are right now. But I have always believed that, especially in troubled times, we must hold to those things which make all of this worth it. Having this reinforced by someone I trust and admire was comforting. And it was truly heartwarming to have so many beloved guests visit us and celebrate with us. I was reminded that I have become someone that others look to in these moments, that I, too, am a source of comfort. Gods willing, I will always be so.
And by the grace of Limerance, it is not just birthdays that we have had to celebrate! Though important - for we should all be so blessed with the chance to keep learning and loving in these lives we have, Saik and Byrne have recently brokered an alliance that reinforces the ties between the Lyceum and Crownlands. My cousin, Filip, has gone on to find his most perfect match in Countess Lyra. We are proud to see him embrace the role of count-consort of Cedar Vale. I, personally, am looking forward to visiting them again when the winter has passed. However, as Voice of Saik, it was my honor to act on Lucita's behalf to negotiate this union beyond my personal interests. The people of Saikland Greens and Cedar Vale will see benefits for generations to come through increased trade and the sharing of knowledge. This is an exciting and wonderful step forward for all.
There is so much that weighs upon us, so many fears to face and challenges to overcome. I promise you, whomever you are reading this, that there are good and sweet and lovely things worth holding onto. In these confusing and dark times, there is light to guide you through. It may be in the smile of the one who makes your heart swell with fondness, it may be in the company of people who brave the snow for you, it may be in the places you tell yourself you cannot find it for any number of fearful reasons. Find the light. If you cannot find it? Be it.
And by the grace of Limerance, it is not just birthdays that we have had to celebrate! Though important - for we should all be so blessed with the chance to keep learning and loving in these lives we have, Saik and Byrne have recently brokered an alliance that reinforces the ties between the Lyceum and Crownlands. My cousin, Filip, has gone on to find his most perfect match in Countess Lyra. We are proud to see him embrace the role of count-consort of Cedar Vale. I, personally, am looking forward to visiting them again when the winter has passed. However, as Voice of Saik, it was my honor to act on Lucita's behalf to negotiate this union beyond my personal interests. The people of Saikland Greens and Cedar Vale will see benefits for generations to come through increased trade and the sharing of knowledge. This is an exciting and wonderful step forward for all.
There is so much that weighs upon us, so many fears to face and challenges to overcome. I promise you, whomever you are reading this, that there are good and sweet and lovely things worth holding onto. In these confusing and dark times, there is light to guide you through. It may be in the smile of the one who makes your heart swell with fondness, it may be in the company of people who brave the snow for you, it may be in the places you tell yourself you cannot find it for any number of fearful reasons. Find the light. If you cannot find it? Be it.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.