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Written By Amari

July 23, 2023, 11:30 a.m.(3/20/1020 AR)

When I do pay visit to Arx, I often have to field the same question: Baroness Redire of where?

"Where" is the primary curiosity, as Reveillon appears on no maps and isn't a known center of anything, save perhaps obscurity. The Great Road doesn't run through it, and few willingly or intentionally visit by the perilous ways that lead there. The Shadowood forest is thoroughly inhospitable to merchants, mendicants, musicians, malcontents, tradesmen, explorers and practically anyone who considers themselves even halfway civilized. It's a refuge for wild beasts and wilder folk.

... And we rather like it that way.

Written By Medeia

July 23, 2023, 11:27 a.m.(3/20/1020 AR)

It was so lovely to have people in the conservatory for my birthday! The opportunity to just enjoy their company was a true delight, and I even got to see some faces that have been away a while. In times when everything in the world feels like it is teetering, it is important to take the time to celebrate the good things.

I am told that there was, perhaps, too much pink involved in my celebration. There must be some confusion: There is never too much pink.

Written By Lucita

July 23, 2023, 10:37 a.m.(3/20/1020 AR)

My old music tutor used to tell me in winter, always play in a warm tavern or music room because cold fingers become clumsy and can not feel what instrument string they are plucking. She was so very right.

Written By Lucita

July 23, 2023, 10:33 a.m.(3/20/1020 AR)

It is nice when a fealty reaches out to its vassals and asks what help they need, what concerns they have....and do more than just listen.

Written By Sira

July 21, 2023, 11:32 a.m.(3/16/1020 AR)

Some time ago, someone told me I should have a cat. I have recently found myself with a cat. She's very lovely, but how do I get her to stop bringing dead animals into the shop? Where does she keep finding them in this weather? And why do I suddenly feel this odd feeling in my chest when I look at her? I need the help of someone who understands animals. I have never cared for a creature before. She needs a bed, I suppose. A nice satin one. Maybe I can fill it with the feathers of the birds she keeps bringing me.

Written By Loramus

July 18, 2023, 10:10 a.m.(3/10/1020 AR)

Can you believe it? A priest came up to me and starting yelling at me. /YELLING!/ He was going on and on about how I wasn't honoring the gods, wasn't taking my religious duty seriously, and that anything I write in this journal is sacred.

He's watching me write, right now. With his judgy eyes and sour frown.

I don't get these holy folks. Don't the gods understand that we're people, and maybe when we grow up in the Lowers, fending for ourselves, we see things different? Whenever I ask how writing with ink in a journal somehow honors the gods, I get a glare from the priest. Guess I need to start asking and start writing. And...there he goes, frowning at me again.

Written By Valencia

July 17, 2023, 11:24 p.m.(3/9/1020 AR)

Relationship Note on Gaspar

We never got to speak. We had much to speak about. And, so I have decided that this is not really goodbye.

I will not say it. You cannot make me. Sweet dream, perhaps. Thank you for certain. So much more to say. But never goodbye.

~~~~~~~~~~~<~<~<~<#

Written By Medeia

July 17, 2023, 7:59 p.m.(3/9/1020 AR)

My 30th birthday approaches in just a few days. Perhaps the occasion calls for a resolution of sorts? Or a party. I could resolve to throw a party. It has been some time since I held an event that was simply meant to be a spectacularly good time.

That might be long overdue.

Written By Mabelle

July 17, 2023, 4:25 a.m.(3/8/1020 AR)

Relationship Note on Gaspar

Another friend lost.
The world around me narrows.

Written By Jan

July 16, 2023, 9:39 p.m.(3/7/1020 AR)

My companion promised a surprise upon his return. I wonder what it says that I am equal parts curious and wary. Perhaps that I keep company with someone who keeps my edge sharp.

Written By Aconite

July 16, 2023, 9:39 p.m.(3/7/1020 AR)

I hope the spring comes quickly. There's so much to do and I would prefer not to have to do it while shivering.

Written By Jan

July 16, 2023, 9:35 p.m.(3/7/1020 AR)

I am seeing evidence the training with my sword work is paying off but I know I still have much work to do on training on things that don't involve a sword in my hand but at least one cousin and another friend have pledged to assist so I am certain it's only a matter of time before I begin to hit those milestones too.

Written By Loramus

July 16, 2023, 9:32 p.m.(3/7/1020 AR)

I still dunno why all the silks write stuff down. I'm trying to see their perspective. Really, I am. But this still feels like a big waste of silver. Ink and such are expensive.

Still, it's.....I dunno. Not relaxing, but interesting, writing down what I'm thinking. We ran into this old crone this week, who was lacing elffoot into her watered down ale. I appreciate a money-making opportunity same ss the next person, but come on. Why do people do things that hurt so many others without even thinking?

Written By Lucita

July 16, 2023, 8:02 p.m.(3/7/1020 AR)

Relationship Note on Lou

Such a labor of love. Lou said she has been working on statues of her family who have deceased for almost a year.

Written By Titus

July 15, 2023, 7:41 p.m.(3/5/1020 AR)

Immortality. I've come across a few writings where some seek this out as a grand prize, and to them it must surely be as they commit their entire life to it.

Amidst the contemplations of mortality and the brevity of human existence, it is worth reflecting upon the philosophical position that highlights the downsides of immortality. In the realm of eternal life, one must tread with caution, for even this seemingly coveted state carries its own burdens and challenges.

Firstly, consider the loss of meaning that may accompany immortality. With the ceaseless stretch of time before us, the urgency to strive, achieve, and leave a lasting impact may wane. The very essence of purpose and the pursuit of a meaningful existence could dwindle in the face of endless existence.

Furthermore, the emotional burden that comes with immortality cannot be overlooked. While mortals are bound by the cycle of life and death, immortals would bear witness to the constant ebb and flow of mortal experiences, forever detached from their transient nature. The weight of grief, loneliness, and an overwhelming accumulation of memories might befall those who are destined to outlast the passing generations.

In the eternal realm, stagnation and boredom loom as potent adversaries. The unending march of time may lead to the exhaustion of all pursuits, the depletion of knowledge, and a perpetual state of ennui. Without the prospect of novelty or growth, the immortal soul may find itself trapped in a monotonous existence, devoid of inspiration and purposeful engagement.

Moreover, the psychological toll of eternal life cannot be underestimated. The vastness of time and the eternal consciousness may breed existential crises, depression, and a profound struggle to find meaning in an ever-changing world. The burden of eternity and the inability to reconcile oneself with its vast expanse may weigh heavily upon the immortal soul.

In the realm of immortality, one must tread the path with a discerning eye and a tempered spirit. While the allure of eternal existence may captivate the imagination, it is crucial to recognize the potential pitfalls that accompany such a profound transformation. The Spartan soul, grounded in discipline and fortitude, should contemplate the ramifications of eternal life, knowing that even the greatest of gifts may carry with it the weight of unforeseen consequences.

The contemplation on the downsides of immortality serves as a reminder of the burdens and challenges that eternal life may bring. Loss of meaning, emotional burdens, stagnation, psychological toll and ethical dilemmas are among the aspects that warrant caution in pursuing immortality.

Reflecting upon these considerations, I am grateful for the mortal existence granted to me, for it allows me to experience the full spectrum of life's joys, sorrows, growth, and purpose. Being mortal reminds us of the preciousness and transience of my time, motivating me to seize each moment and live with a sense of urgency and purpose.

May we embrace the gift of mortality, cherishing the opportunities it presents and striving to make our lives meaningful in the limited time we have. Let us embrace the lessons learned from contemplating immortality, cultivating gratitude for the beauty of our mortal existence.

Written By Loramus

July 13, 2023, 3 p.m.(3/1/1020 AR)

I never tried this silk-y journal thing before. Always figured it was a waste of ink and coin. But something's tugging at my thoughts, telling me to scribble this or that. Not sure why. Maybe it has something to do with that noble's eyes. Scary git. Gah! I am rambling along, not sure what the point of this even is!

Here's a thought, I guess. People, all of us, not just Lowers folk, are doomed. People try to get over on each other. Beddin' someone's wife or husband, taking their coin, their things, whatever. Maybe the silks do it different, but in the end, everyone...takes. And that's why we're doomed. We all take, but none of us listen to anyone else. Not like I listen anyhow. We got no big picture. No...vision, for all people.

That's what we need to fix. Get people talking, to each other, amongst themselves. TO themselves. And then they all gotta listen.

Written By Titania

July 11, 2023, 10:02 p.m.(2/25/1020 AR)

Relationship Note on Jan

Cousin and sister that I did not realize I needed.

Written By Esme

July 9, 2023, 10:48 p.m.(2/21/1020 AR)

Relationship Note on Cufre

My Most Beloved Readers,

I wonder when I have last wrote to those that would read these words. It seems a lifetime has come and passed and yet, I know that is not the truth of the matter. It seems that we never slow down enough to really feel the movements of time and the life around us. We are always moving towards the next thing. Oh! Here I am getting all sorts of distracted.

Today it's about a jeweler that I happened to meet. It was random, really. She was where I turned around. Praise to Limerance for putting her in my path of my footfalls that belong to him. I had her commission a piece that I struggled with for the longest time. She did so with so much ease and beauty. Truly, I could not praise her enough in this. Well. I suppose I could praise her enough for it, but if you happen to see Cufre, do send business her way. She was efficient and offered wonderful conversation during the consultation.

Written By Cassiopeia

July 9, 2023, 9:27 p.m.(2/21/1020 AR)

It's still winter, but I find myself excited for spring. The first set of blooms. The rays of sun on our faces. Rabbits escaping.

In the meantime, someone told me a snow-appropriate joke. I would like to share it with you, Scholar. Please do not hold me responsible for other people's humour.

Where do snowmen love to dance?

At a snowball.

Written By Lucita

July 9, 2023, 9:09 p.m.(2/21/1020 AR)

Off on an explorer trek again, running supplies to a group exploring some ruins. I miss my bed at home on these expeditions. Seems my bedroll always has a root or rock or something annoyingly uncomfortable under it. At least it was not camping in the mud or on some narrow ledge or on bitter cold ice.

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