Written By Rook
May 7, 2018, 3:40 p.m.(9/13/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Mirari
I have, as ever, been a particular courtier. I have refused far more custom than I have ever accepted, simply because it didn't align with my whims at the time, and that is our right. Furthermore, I have chosen to forgo payment more than a few times as well for whichever reason suited me. It does however hurt the entrepreneurs among us when we refuse too often, and there becomes this strange expectation that everything in this realm should be free, and that we deserve it thus.
We are afforded many luxuries as commoners, and especially courtiers, and that is not something to be forgotten certainly.
If anyone is ever upset at you for charging and you do not wish to deal with them - which you are certainly capable of - please send them my way. It would be my sincerest pleasure to sit with them a while, and speak to them at length, so that I might educate them.
For free, since they take issue with summoning up a few silver here or there.
We are afforded many luxuries as commoners, and especially courtiers, and that is not something to be forgotten certainly.
If anyone is ever upset at you for charging and you do not wish to deal with them - which you are certainly capable of - please send them my way. It would be my sincerest pleasure to sit with them a while, and speak to them at length, so that I might educate them.
For free, since they take issue with summoning up a few silver here or there.
Written By Rook
May 7, 2018, 3:25 p.m.(9/13/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Mirari
We're courtiers, my dear. We're common, also. Charging is acceptable and even encouraged for our lessons, whatever they be. Blessed Aureth's charges that shift depending on our client is also our prerogative.
Whatever you do with the sum, that's your business, of course. If you take silver from someone, you'll give it to someone else eventually. Payment is taking and giving as you sell services and pay for them in turn. It makes our economy happy.
Whatever you do with the sum, that's your business, of course. If you take silver from someone, you'll give it to someone else eventually. Payment is taking and giving as you sell services and pay for them in turn. It makes our economy happy.
Written By Rook
May 7, 2018, 3:23 p.m.(9/13/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Brannen
You are too kind, Sir Harthall, for documenting this in your journals. Nonetheless, it is I who should speak well of you again, whom agreed to watch over it until it was ready to be passed on.
Written By Rook
May 7, 2018, 3:21 p.m.(9/13/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Tomwell
I'm not sure you're quite grasping it, either. That's alright, Lord Tomwell. Not everyone is perfect.
Princess Consort Alarissa Thrax has Household staff to attend to the minor matters, I am certain, that is how Great Houses operate. I doubt there is much she has to do that requires a prospective student to step in and do that for her. They can hardly handle the petitions of court which takes hours of one's day, after all.
When one has the capacity to fit, say, three students in a week? There'll be competition for those positions. To find those who truly wish you as the tutor, you place a small hurdle in front of them. That hurdle is not insurmountable at all. If it doesn't suit, that tutor is not for you, and you do not value them, their talents and skills, or their experience enough.
Princess Consort Alarissa Thrax has Household staff to attend to the minor matters, I am certain, that is how Great Houses operate. I doubt there is much she has to do that requires a prospective student to step in and do that for her. They can hardly handle the petitions of court which takes hours of one's day, after all.
When one has the capacity to fit, say, three students in a week? There'll be competition for those positions. To find those who truly wish you as the tutor, you place a small hurdle in front of them. That hurdle is not insurmountable at all. If it doesn't suit, that tutor is not for you, and you do not value them, their talents and skills, or their experience enough.
Written By Rook
May 7, 2018, 2:39 p.m.(9/13/1008 AR)
When the Peerage request a sum of some order, writs or silver, and specifically indicate it will go to charity that -is- their duty to the people made known. Highly skilled, valued and in-demand tutors are not in endless supply. With Princess-Consort Alarissa Thrax's policy regarding her time, I think it's only reasonable, and the prospect of a few week's wages put towards such seems appropriate to me.
The Scholars and many individuals within the Faith do indeed provide their services for free but they are often so busy that any additional people willing to share information amongst citizens of the Compact should be applauded.
I have personally studied under her highness and you will find your development under her tutelage far superior to many run of the mill lecturers. The donations are in good faith and in recognition that you're taking up the busy schedule of someone who has so many other matters on their plate.
The Scholars and many individuals within the Faith do indeed provide their services for free but they are often so busy that any additional people willing to share information amongst citizens of the Compact should be applauded.
I have personally studied under her highness and you will find your development under her tutelage far superior to many run of the mill lecturers. The donations are in good faith and in recognition that you're taking up the busy schedule of someone who has so many other matters on their plate.
Written By Rook
April 19, 2018, 1:39 p.m.(8/1/1008 AR)
I have been asked questions of late, regarding my transitions in rank and title, and even been given other people's condolences on the changes. I would like to address that here, so I might point individuals to my journals, so they might understand it all somewhat better:
I was born common. One 'Master Rook' amongst a family known as the 'Grayward', and we were merchants. Though I was the heir to my father, Relton Grayward, and our family's enterprises, I chose a different path. I became a courtier and after completing my training, I came to the City of Arx. I never joined the Whispers, though I took inspiration from them for certain, and spent time in their establishment as an honoured guest and associate. I sought out Princess Regent Dawn Grayson and she took me on as her protege. I took on the mantle of the Crown Minister of Coin. I worked hard and I was rewarded, my family were recognised for their contributions to House Grayson, and we were ennobled through enfeoffment to become the Barony of House Grayward.
As Lord Rook Grayward, I had my duties of the Crown to keep me busy, and my pursuits as a courtier, scholar and patron of the arts enriched my life. In time, I married Princess Katarina Valardin and joined House Valardin. Prince Rook Valardin is how many of you know me, but that is an untruth, for that marriage was anulled just recently. Katarina and I made the decision to part ways and the Faith of the Pantheon recognised the undoing of the vows. I would have returned to House Grayward, to return as Lord Rook Grayward, but I have other obligations than just my family. The King, Crown and Compact rely on my focus on keeping the government well funded and well represented. The bias of my fealty had often been brought into question and I recognise why. So I chose to instead speak my oaths as Crownsworn directly to His Majesty, King Alaric IV, Sovereign of Arx.
I sought a new path, having tasted the life of the highest highs and the modesty of lower lows. I have been extraordinarily lucky in my lifetime-- spoilt, even. I honour Holy Gild herself for handing me these riches, not just the kind that takes form of coin, and so I venerate Her as and when I am able. I chose this, so do not be sorry for me, and do not think I will not prosper with Her good graces even now. I shall.
I was born common. One 'Master Rook' amongst a family known as the 'Grayward', and we were merchants. Though I was the heir to my father, Relton Grayward, and our family's enterprises, I chose a different path. I became a courtier and after completing my training, I came to the City of Arx. I never joined the Whispers, though I took inspiration from them for certain, and spent time in their establishment as an honoured guest and associate. I sought out Princess Regent Dawn Grayson and she took me on as her protege. I took on the mantle of the Crown Minister of Coin. I worked hard and I was rewarded, my family were recognised for their contributions to House Grayson, and we were ennobled through enfeoffment to become the Barony of House Grayward.
As Lord Rook Grayward, I had my duties of the Crown to keep me busy, and my pursuits as a courtier, scholar and patron of the arts enriched my life. In time, I married Princess Katarina Valardin and joined House Valardin. Prince Rook Valardin is how many of you know me, but that is an untruth, for that marriage was anulled just recently. Katarina and I made the decision to part ways and the Faith of the Pantheon recognised the undoing of the vows. I would have returned to House Grayward, to return as Lord Rook Grayward, but I have other obligations than just my family. The King, Crown and Compact rely on my focus on keeping the government well funded and well represented. The bias of my fealty had often been brought into question and I recognise why. So I chose to instead speak my oaths as Crownsworn directly to His Majesty, King Alaric IV, Sovereign of Arx.
I sought a new path, having tasted the life of the highest highs and the modesty of lower lows. I have been extraordinarily lucky in my lifetime-- spoilt, even. I honour Holy Gild herself for handing me these riches, not just the kind that takes form of coin, and so I venerate Her as and when I am able. I chose this, so do not be sorry for me, and do not think I will not prosper with Her good graces even now. I shall.
Written By Rook
April 18, 2018, 10:46 p.m.(7/28/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Jeffeth
Another man I met in the Shrine of Gild today. Truly huge. Are all knights this tall? Does being tall lend you a weighted chance of becoming a knight, I wonder.
Perhaps I'll do some stats in my spare time. They're always fun.
Perhaps I'll do some stats in my spare time. They're always fun.
Written By Rook
April 18, 2018, 10:43 p.m.(7/28/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Brannen
I met Sir Brannen Harthall today and upon asking him to do something for me for nothing, he agreed. It was not just for me, of course, but that's something we should learn from. What I've learned from.
Good can come from bad, selflessness from greed, and though it doesn't excuse it-- it can lessen its blot on the world. Strive to be good, and when you can't be, be as good as you can be.
Thank you, good sir, for your promise.
Good can come from bad, selflessness from greed, and though it doesn't excuse it-- it can lessen its blot on the world. Strive to be good, and when you can't be, be as good as you can be.
Thank you, good sir, for your promise.
Written By Rook
April 18, 2018, 10:41 p.m.(7/28/1008 AR)
It is all done now, and I look forward to the future, and what I can make of it. By Holy Gild's good graces I have had much in my life, earned and given, and I give much of it away so I can start on a new path. I do not fear, however. Anything is possible now, and I have chosen this road, and it brings me Solace.
Written By Rook
April 15, 2018, 11:47 a.m.(7/21/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Aurora
Mistress Aurora Thornburn was a wonderful protege, and I couldn't have asked more from her, and so I greatly encourage those who seek a legendary seamstress amongst their retained proteges to reach out to her.
Written By Rook
April 15, 2018, 11:21 a.m.(7/21/1008 AR)
It is with due sobriety that I thank the Faith of the Pantheon, particularly both the Seraph of Sanctum and the Legate of Concepts, for their review of a matter personal and political; the holy annulment of my marriage to Princess Katarina Valardin. My time within House Valardin has been nothing short of hospitable, though the time comes to acknowledge when a match is not in the best interests of all parties involved.
I further extend my thanks to his grace, Prince Edain, his Voice and sister, Princess Alis, and of course Princess Katarina herself for all they have given in my time amongst them as family. While the union is unmade, it is done so amicably and without ill will. Both our families will separate under good terms, of that I have no doubt. We will go our separate ways, and we will each be stronger for it.
I shall no longer be a prince of House Valardin in the Oathlands, and I shall no longer be a lord of House Grayward within the Crownlands, choosing instead to take my oaths directly to the Crown in my capacities serving the King without bias. I will resume my role amongst the commons as a courtier and dedicate myself as Crownworn to His Majesty, King Alaric IV, the Sovereign of Arx.
I further extend my thanks to his grace, Prince Edain, his Voice and sister, Princess Alis, and of course Princess Katarina herself for all they have given in my time amongst them as family. While the union is unmade, it is done so amicably and without ill will. Both our families will separate under good terms, of that I have no doubt. We will go our separate ways, and we will each be stronger for it.
I shall no longer be a prince of House Valardin in the Oathlands, and I shall no longer be a lord of House Grayward within the Crownlands, choosing instead to take my oaths directly to the Crown in my capacities serving the King without bias. I will resume my role amongst the commons as a courtier and dedicate myself as Crownworn to His Majesty, King Alaric IV, the Sovereign of Arx.
Written By Rook
March 30, 2018, 12:56 a.m.(6/14/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Cicero
The Silver Consortium is making leaps and bounds in the arena of commerce and economical development. I am proud. I am sure Lord Cicero Malvici né Velenosa would equally be so. Or at least, my hope.
Written By Rook
March 12, 2018, 4:53 p.m.(5/7/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Orathy
No.
Written By Rook
March 3, 2018, 9:57 p.m.(4/18/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Aurora
Your skills remain legendary and the costumes you made for the cast of "The Spider's Journey" were exemplary. Especially well done on Caterina and the Prodigal's, Yasmine Rovashani's and Itzal Culler's.
I am honoured to be your patron, as ever.
I am honoured to be your patron, as ever.
Written By Rook
March 3, 2018, 9:56 p.m.(4/18/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Yasmine
Your talents are showing themselves more and more in every performance. Your debut was excellent, your latest play exceptional, and may holy Jayus only look kindly upon your next performance too.
As ever, I'm proud to be your patron.
As ever, I'm proud to be your patron.
Written By Rook
Feb. 26, 2018, 5:49 p.m.(4/7/1008 AR)
All marriages are technically for love. Sometimes it is the love of your partner, sometimes the love of your family, and sometimes simply the love you feel for yourself.
Written By Rook
Sept. 11, 2017, 3:34 p.m.(3/12/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Alis
I would never be -seen- to say such a thing.
Written By Rook
Aug. 24, 2017, 1:30 p.m.(2/1/1007 AR)
The School of Rook has been a fun project, I've even come up with names for the classes, to teach those wayward students:
Majors include:
Coins, coins, coins (Economics)
Manners maketh (and breaketh) man and woman (Etiquette)
Knowing the unknown (Investigation)
The tongue has too many uses (Linguistics)
We're all pawns, try to be the Rook (Manipulation)
Do as I say, not as I do-- except that, do that (Teaching)
Electives include:
Playing nice and sharing your toys (Diplomacy)
Reading people without words (Empathy)
Dance, dance, revolution (Performance)
He said, she said, but -I- said (Propaganda)
The birds and the bees (Seduction)
Don't worry, I'll handle this (Stewardship)
Majors include:
Coins, coins, coins (Economics)
Manners maketh (and breaketh) man and woman (Etiquette)
Knowing the unknown (Investigation)
The tongue has too many uses (Linguistics)
We're all pawns, try to be the Rook (Manipulation)
Do as I say, not as I do-- except that, do that (Teaching)
Electives include:
Playing nice and sharing your toys (Diplomacy)
Reading people without words (Empathy)
Dance, dance, revolution (Performance)
He said, she said, but -I- said (Propaganda)
The birds and the bees (Seduction)
Don't worry, I'll handle this (Stewardship)
Written By Rook
Aug. 21, 2017, 8:39 p.m.(1/23/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Mydas
Sorry, I can't hear you over the sound of 'mmm, taxes!'
On a more serious note, you do good work for yourself, your family and your liege - you should be proud if even half of what I've heard is true.
On a more serious note, you do good work for yourself, your family and your liege - you should be proud if even half of what I've heard is true.
Written By Rook
Aug. 8, 2017, 10:06 p.m.(12/25/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Joscelin
Guildmistress Joscelin,
Regarding writing to the bank to request we not accept payment from Master Oliver Coldrain, unfortunately we cannot comply with your request.
We rather like money. Taxes, interest, transactions-- it's all one and the same.
Yours kindly,
His Majesty's Revenue and Customs,
The Crown Treasury
Regarding writing to the bank to request we not accept payment from Master Oliver Coldrain, unfortunately we cannot comply with your request.
We rather like money. Taxes, interest, transactions-- it's all one and the same.
Yours kindly,
His Majesty's Revenue and Customs,
The Crown Treasury
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.