Written By Amari
Aug. 23, 2020, 2:56 p.m.(11/22/1013 AR)
That was one of the best jousts I've ever participated in. I think we all honored Gloria well with our performances, myself included. I'm sure I would have been upset to have lost in the first round against anyone else but Lady Jael. We rode masterfully and met each other with such solid strikes, we both thought the other had won for the strength and sting of the hits we delivered.
It was a far cry from the days I couldn't even tilt at the rings with any success, and yes, Uncle Norwood is to blame. If anyone doubts his skill, look at how well he taught Lady Jael, Lady Adalyn and myself. They were both outstanding, and Lady Adalyn won the tourney over Dame Bree who looked magnificent herself. It was no easy contest.
What a fine and exciting day! They even had made little wooden figures of each competitor atop their horse made and given away. I was very pleased with mine, as Bandit looks his handsome and dangerous self, even in miniature.
Many thanks to the hosts and organizers; Duke Cristoph Laurent, Legate Cassandra, and Princess Alis Valardin.
It was a far cry from the days I couldn't even tilt at the rings with any success, and yes, Uncle Norwood is to blame. If anyone doubts his skill, look at how well he taught Lady Jael, Lady Adalyn and myself. They were both outstanding, and Lady Adalyn won the tourney over Dame Bree who looked magnificent herself. It was no easy contest.
What a fine and exciting day! They even had made little wooden figures of each competitor atop their horse made and given away. I was very pleased with mine, as Bandit looks his handsome and dangerous self, even in miniature.
Many thanks to the hosts and organizers; Duke Cristoph Laurent, Legate Cassandra, and Princess Alis Valardin.
Written By Amari
Aug. 16, 2020, 4:57 p.m.(11/8/1013 AR)
Relationship Note on Margerie
The birthday cake Aunt Margerie made was lovely. I should have commissioned a painter to immortalize it, because I don't think anyone will believe me when I tell them about it now. It had pumpkin spice and honey pecans, with a chocolate frosting made to look like tree bark, and leaves. It was real, I swear it.
Someone also sent roses, but I'm not supposed to overthink those.
Someone also sent roses, but I'm not supposed to overthink those.
Written By Amari
July 28, 2020, 11:55 p.m.(9/27/1013 AR)
That was an unexpected twist which took me completely by surprise. I'm still a little stunned and not sure what to write of it, but glad for and humbled by the lengths everyone went to and the heroism of your efforts in that cold, desolate place. You all deserve many thanks and very hot baths.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Written By Amari
July 28, 2020, 9:08 p.m.(9/26/1013 AR)
Relationship Note on Jael
Though I think she's exaggerating, Lady Jael has herself to blame in part. I do recall she gave me my first serious lessons, as I was in complete awe of her skill with the bow and in the saddle (and still am). The rest is largely Uncle Norwood's fault.
Written By Amari
July 26, 2020, 12:18 p.m.(9/22/1013 AR)
I'm away.
I thought i had something more to write about it, but I don't. If I die on this adventure, pack all my things in a sealed stone coffer beneath a tasteful statue in my honor near Oakhaven so that my next incarnation might someday find and collect them.
Leave the following inscription on the base of the statue:
Lady Amari, the White Heart of Keaton, first of her kind. Knight of Oakhaven, figure of minor significance.
"Maybe don't, next time?"
I thought i had something more to write about it, but I don't. If I die on this adventure, pack all my things in a sealed stone coffer beneath a tasteful statue in my honor near Oakhaven so that my next incarnation might someday find and collect them.
Leave the following inscription on the base of the statue:
Lady Amari, the White Heart of Keaton, first of her kind. Knight of Oakhaven, figure of minor significance.
"Maybe don't, next time?"
Written By Amari
July 4, 2020, 12:54 p.m.(8/6/1013 AR)
Relationship Note on Kedehern
The Dullest Oathlander? Poor Milton! He may well be as you described, but I feel I should defend him all the same. Farriers, by and large, must be calm, patient and steady in their work. Horses can be incredibly temperamental and difficult, and keenly sense when someone is frustrated with them or means them harm. So perhaps, he's simply long accustomed to speaking in a slow and lulling manner as he must with the horses to avoid having his chest kicked in.
Written By Amari
July 4, 2020, 11:16 a.m.(8/6/1013 AR)
I still recall when I first came to Arx, and how I marveled at all the grand events and the various contests that were held. Not that I could win even a single one; my sad little boat sank in the Tyde garden pool, I couldn't stand in the cold of the sea in the Bay of Thrax for very long nor find an oyster with a pearl hidden within, nearly choked to death on cake at the Queensrest, found a crab in the black pool at the Velenosa estate rather than a prize, half froze after being pelted by snowballs, was eliminated in the first round of a Tournament of Thorns after failing to woo a prince and I couldn't joust or spar to make it through the first rounds, nor could I even summon the nerve to brave the Telmar gauntlet.
Even being a perpetual loser at these various contests, I always won (to be very trite), for the fun had was the true treasure. Oh, but those precious few wins I've secured have been so sweet. I can't pretend otherwise. They've included a poetry joust, a sled race, a very serious contest to not laugh, several Kismet carnival games and now most improbably; a best bathing suit contest at House Laurent's pool joust. As for the joust itself, I was knocked out in the second round by Lord Drake in his very small, very purple shorts. It was a close contest, just as the best bathing suit judging must have been. I thought Princess Zara would surely win for how well she represented Oathlands fashion with all that steel, but even Uncle Norwood in his modest one piece must have been in contention.
It was a lovely occasion. Duke Cristoph is a wonderful host and event planner.
Even being a perpetual loser at these various contests, I always won (to be very trite), for the fun had was the true treasure. Oh, but those precious few wins I've secured have been so sweet. I can't pretend otherwise. They've included a poetry joust, a sled race, a very serious contest to not laugh, several Kismet carnival games and now most improbably; a best bathing suit contest at House Laurent's pool joust. As for the joust itself, I was knocked out in the second round by Lord Drake in his very small, very purple shorts. It was a close contest, just as the best bathing suit judging must have been. I thought Princess Zara would surely win for how well she represented Oathlands fashion with all that steel, but even Uncle Norwood in his modest one piece must have been in contention.
It was a lovely occasion. Duke Cristoph is a wonderful host and event planner.
Written By Amari
June 27, 2020, 8:05 p.m.(7/20/1013 AR)
Good news! It's been independently verified that I'm not the dullest Oathlander. I have many faults, but being dull is not the most severe of them.
Written By Amari
June 20, 2020, 8:51 a.m.(7/5/1013 AR)
Relationship Note on Margerie
I'm so glad Aunt Margerie has finally returned to Arx. I've missed her terribly.
Written By Amari
June 7, 2020, 8:10 p.m.(6/8/1013 AR)
I'm not sure how I'll ever be able to decide which of them to spoil the most. There's so many now, and they're all cute as can be. I suppose the fairest thing would be to spoil them all equally.
Written By Amari
May 16, 2020, 10:34 a.m.(4/20/1013 AR)
I keep meeting strangers in the woods who don't seem to think I belong out there. To them I insist that I most assuredly do, and would appreciate it if they didn't point spears and other sharp objects at me in protest. They have only themselves to blame if they find themselves trampled under hoof, or worse.
Those I met that were less violently opposed to my presence made for pleasant company, however. There are many people who simply aren't well suited to the salon or ball, or even just the pace and scale of Arx, but are no less interesting than the most refined courtiers in their fanciest fashions, really. They're usually quite engaging, if in a different way and in an often refreshingly honest manner.
I still do not appreciate insults given to my goat, however. That's just cruel and such unkind behavior tests my patience.
Those I met that were less violently opposed to my presence made for pleasant company, however. There are many people who simply aren't well suited to the salon or ball, or even just the pace and scale of Arx, but are no less interesting than the most refined courtiers in their fanciest fashions, really. They're usually quite engaging, if in a different way and in an often refreshingly honest manner.
I still do not appreciate insults given to my goat, however. That's just cruel and such unkind behavior tests my patience.
Written By Amari
May 13, 2020, 3:32 p.m.(4/14/1013 AR)
It must certainly be spring. Many are now marrying for love or duty, or a shade of something in between. Of course, the perennial argument has sprung up again about which is better but like an ephemeral first bloom when the trees finally grow out their canopy of leaves above, it will wither away until next year. There are always greater problems and deeper concerns looming.
I'm entirely more excited about the Artshall Spring Livestock Sale. I found the most adorable piglet in Oakhaven during a recent visit. Should Snortlepuff not be sold, I think I may keep him here in Arx with me. He could eat kitchen scraps for Marie. He'll probably only weigh three hundred pounds or so when he's fully grown, so it should be fine.
I'm entirely more excited about the Artshall Spring Livestock Sale. I found the most adorable piglet in Oakhaven during a recent visit. Should Snortlepuff not be sold, I think I may keep him here in Arx with me. He could eat kitchen scraps for Marie. He'll probably only weigh three hundred pounds or so when he's fully grown, so it should be fine.
Written By Amari
May 9, 2020, 11:08 a.m.(4/6/1013 AR)
This latest pillow I've stitched is my very best work ever. I barely lost any blood and my needlework was precise. I think I'm finally getting the knack of it! I'm glad too, since it's a gift for someone I'm very fond of, and for someone else I hope to be. I expect they will be a good addition to the House regardless.
Written By Amari
May 9, 2020, 10:28 a.m.(4/6/1013 AR)
Baron and Baroness Fortier of Mistward, I have to admit my admiration for what you've done so far and how quickly. I imagine the hardest work is yet to come, but that's not to diminish what you've already accomplished. There will always be difficulties and unforeseen calamities, but I expect the both of you will handily manage them and have plenty of help from your friends and family, should you ever need it.
I'm also very excited for the arrival of your first child and heir, and proud that you've entrusted me to be their Witness. They surely couldn't be more trouble than a cheeky little goat or a bog dog, and I imagine they'll take better to instruction than either.
I'm also very excited for the arrival of your first child and heir, and proud that you've entrusted me to be their Witness. They surely couldn't be more trouble than a cheeky little goat or a bog dog, and I imagine they'll take better to instruction than either.
Written By Amari
April 1, 2020, 5:35 p.m.(1/14/1013 AR)
Well, someone's a very grumpy boy. Restitution is not theft.
Written By Amari
March 29, 2020, 3:20 p.m.(1/8/1013 AR)
That was a lovely little island and a wonderful place to visit. I'd like to return (preferably in the summer), and spend more than a day enjoying the peaceful grove, the playful wind, the water falls, the view from the high cliffs and the sea crashing below.
Perhaps we'll find an equally idyllic isle in the south. There, I'll try not to run so far ahead as I did. I was just desperate to stretch my legs and see something other than sky and sea stretching from one horizon to the other after so long stuck aboard the boat.
Not that the boat itself was to blame. It was a fine one, and Goode Sal a great captain with a deep well of patience for silly questions.
Perhaps we'll find an equally idyllic isle in the south. There, I'll try not to run so far ahead as I did. I was just desperate to stretch my legs and see something other than sky and sea stretching from one horizon to the other after so long stuck aboard the boat.
Not that the boat itself was to blame. It was a fine one, and Goode Sal a great captain with a deep well of patience for silly questions.
Written By Amari
March 24, 2020, 10:49 p.m.(12/26/1012 AR)
Relationship Note on Norwood
I thought it would be best to formally record an apology to you, Uncle Norwood, for placing in your garden, a large figure of stick and twine without your permission or knowledge. I'm sorry. I meant well and it was made in earnest, but I am sorry for the distress it caused when you finally noticed it there bringing blessings to your beets and other vegetables. I'm also very sorry for laughing so much at the time. I take full responsibility.
I will, of course, help see a shrine built and properly dedicated to Petrichor in its place.
I will, of course, help see a shrine built and properly dedicated to Petrichor in its place.
Written By Amari
March 23, 2020, 9:02 p.m.(12/24/1012 AR)
Sometimes a little compassion and humility goes a lot further than being right, especially when one is fighting from the back of a giant blazing wrong tottering on rickety legs of ignorance and pride. It's usually smarter to leap off while you're still able and walk away with some dignity intact, rather than ride it straight into the ground.
Written By Amari
March 21, 2020, 2:43 p.m.(12/20/1012 AR)
You were true and brave beyond words. Go with no regret.
Written By Amari
March 17, 2020, 2:43 p.m.(12/12/1012 AR)
It was a good idea to choose the Path of the Wise Monarch, instead of Courtship as I did in the last Tournament of Thorns. That attempt was truly disastrous. I'm not sure I'll get far in the finals, but I feel redeemed just to have reached them at all. I'll surely treasure the thorns and the brooch I've earned so far, no matter the end result.
Now, if there are any unwed kings that need a queen who can oversee their kingdom for them, I am available and qualified. The people will never lack for turnips and your coffers will always be full of coin under my able administration. I'm also very pleasant company, often clever and reasonably well mannered, except when I'm not. I enjoy sitting in judgement over others, cavalry charges, determining fair taxation rates, archery, small cheeky goats, travel to distant lands, shouting diplomacy at enemies, birthday jousts, praying to the gods, studying an eclectic range of subjects, finding lost things and singing the one song I know by heart until I'm begged to stop.
Now, if there are any unwed kings that need a queen who can oversee their kingdom for them, I am available and qualified. The people will never lack for turnips and your coffers will always be full of coin under my able administration. I'm also very pleasant company, often clever and reasonably well mannered, except when I'm not. I enjoy sitting in judgement over others, cavalry charges, determining fair taxation rates, archery, small cheeky goats, travel to distant lands, shouting diplomacy at enemies, birthday jousts, praying to the gods, studying an eclectic range of subjects, finding lost things and singing the one song I know by heart until I'm begged to stop.
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