Written By Esoka
Sept. 24, 2017, 2:32 a.m.(4/9/1007 AR)
The paintings I saw at the Freedom Art Show have stayed with me all week. They made me feel many things. Anger and dread at the Archfiend of Slavery, but a resolve to fight it as well. The images of Eurus and the chains so many of its people live in were awful, and I think Prince Mason showed great courage in having those images depicted. Even if we cannot change it from where we are, perhaps understanding it may help in the long.
As for the thralls. All I have to say is this. I would not want to be a thrall. If someone can honestly say it's a life they'd choose for someone they cared for, I don't understand that person very well at all. I gave a little to go toward paying off their debts. Not much, my means are not great, but I hope it will help.
These were not beautiful images, but they were striking and important, and not all things in this world are beautiful. They were true, and Fortunato Grayhope depicted them with a master's talent and courage.
The painting that most haunts my thoughts, though, is the one by the anonymous artist. Perhaps because it hits closer to myself than the others. The one of the figures in alaricite and diamondplate treading on the smaller figures in simpler garb as they fight things they consider larger. I wish I knew who painted this. I'd like to thank them, for the image will live in my mind and heart, even if I'm not sure exactly what I take from it yet. Perhaps just that I need to be better, too, at seeing the muck around me.
As for the thralls. All I have to say is this. I would not want to be a thrall. If someone can honestly say it's a life they'd choose for someone they cared for, I don't understand that person very well at all. I gave a little to go toward paying off their debts. Not much, my means are not great, but I hope it will help.
These were not beautiful images, but they were striking and important, and not all things in this world are beautiful. They were true, and Fortunato Grayhope depicted them with a master's talent and courage.
The painting that most haunts my thoughts, though, is the one by the anonymous artist. Perhaps because it hits closer to myself than the others. The one of the figures in alaricite and diamondplate treading on the smaller figures in simpler garb as they fight things they consider larger. I wish I knew who painted this. I'd like to thank them, for the image will live in my mind and heart, even if I'm not sure exactly what I take from it yet. Perhaps just that I need to be better, too, at seeing the muck around me.
Written By Esoka
Sept. 22, 2017, 10:36 p.m.(4/7/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Thena
My friend Thena of the Knights of Solace has become DAME Thena. I wish to enter my congratulations here for posterity in Vellichor's records. She's a woman of courage, dedication, and admirable faith, and I'm sure she'll be a credit to the knighthood. I'm often unsure how to feel about my own title. It felt heavy when I was given it, and I still think I wear it oddly. It warms my heart to see it bestowed on someone so deserving, though.
Written By Esoka
Sept. 16, 2017, 11:27 p.m.(3/23/1007 AR)
My thoughts are with my friends and fellow warriors who have taken to the seas against the terror in the Darkwater Deeps. My prayers to Mangata for clear sailing, Gloria for valor against this foe, and Lagoma for the healing and rebirth that is, gods grant, to come after. Part of me wishes I could have sailed with them, but I've things to do in Arx to make sure Rivens guards and soldiers are at their strongest. It is heartening to see the shrines of Mangata lining the rivers, and gives me good hope the gods shall be with us in the dark days to come.
Written By Esoka
Sept. 15, 2017, 1:53 a.m.(3/19/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Eshken
My cousin, my blood. His wits are sharper than mine will ever be, and he's come to Arx to put them in good service to the Whitehawks as Baron Silas grows his fledgling House. He does the Greenblood name proud.
Written By Esoka
Sept. 10, 2017, 3:21 p.m.(3/10/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Reese
I knew not quite what to expect from the Graysons when I came to Arx. I had lived all my life in the Compact in the Twainfort, only aware of the Great House in a distant way. Princess Reese was the first Grayson I spent much time with, due to her military duties and mine often having common cause. She was both what I expected and not. Proud and glittering, as the Griffons are renowned to be, and unfailing brave. But also open to trying to understand that which is not her own, even when it was difficult.
That is what I take from this mission into the Gray Forest. That I am among those in the Compact who are at least willing to try to seek common ground with the shav'arvani outside it, and do not just see them as an Other to slaughter and subjugate. As a Prodigal, I take that as no small thing, and it gives me better heart for the fight ahead.
That is what I take from this mission into the Gray Forest. That I am among those in the Compact who are at least willing to try to seek common ground with the shav'arvani outside it, and do not just see them as an Other to slaughter and subjugate. As a Prodigal, I take that as no small thing, and it gives me better heart for the fight ahead.
Written By Esoka
Sept. 8, 2017, 11:37 p.m.(3/7/1007 AR)
It was naive to think that the Grayson mission into the Gray Forest could be one of pure diplomacy. The reach of the Abyss and its servants is long and many tribesman have been taken in - either by lies or by foul corruption. I grieve that the Northern shav'arvani who fell to our blades were beyond saving, but for the life of my countess and those who traveled with us, I thank Gloria my blade was true.
And yet, I am still hopeful. The tribal leader who called herself White Feather seems open to peace and cooperation with us. Her people put steel in my hands when my own weapon was peacebound, and fought with us against the Northern infiltrators. Even some of the Northern tribesmen turned against their corrupted brothers and sisters and joined with us. There will be more and larger battles ahead, I fear, but I pray we can still succeed in finding new allies on this expedition.
And yet, I am still hopeful. The tribal leader who called herself White Feather seems open to peace and cooperation with us. Her people put steel in my hands when my own weapon was peacebound, and fought with us against the Northern infiltrators. Even some of the Northern tribesmen turned against their corrupted brothers and sisters and joined with us. There will be more and larger battles ahead, I fear, but I pray we can still succeed in finding new allies on this expedition.
Written By Esoka
Sept. 2, 2017, 11:58 p.m.(2/20/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Calarian
The man who was husband to Peregrine of the Gold Feathers, gods and spirits keep her soul. I see something of why she tied her tribe to him now. He speaks of cooperation where others would seek only to subjugation and destruction. We shall see if we can make good on his fine words in the Gray Forest.
Written By Esoka
Sept. 2, 2017, 3:02 a.m.(2/18/1007 AR)
The Faith of the Pantheon has been a guiding force for me all of my life. My grandfather taught me the virtues to be found in the loyalty of Limerance and the justice of the Sentinel, and to honor the bounty and life bestowed upon us by the forces of Petrichor and Mangata. I came to know and honor all the gods, but Gloria has always sung especially strong in my heart. Her way is to live your life with courage, boldness, and a valiant heart. Whether on the battlefield or in the other aspects of one's life. I do not always live up to these virtues. But I try to.
It is with that effort in mind that I've taken on a discipleship as one of Gloria's Devoted. I would learn how to better serve the Faith in my small way, and to better know and love the goddess. Honors be, I pray I shall be worthy and serve well.
It is with that effort in mind that I've taken on a discipleship as one of Gloria's Devoted. I would learn how to better serve the Faith in my small way, and to better know and love the goddess. Honors be, I pray I shall be worthy and serve well.
Written By Esoka
Aug. 27, 2017, 5:32 p.m.(2/7/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Calaudrin
All right. Fine. Trees are not easy to paint, and yours look better than mine. I'm still not convinced you know the difference between a tree and a bush, but that's another matter.
Written By Esoka
Aug. 20, 2017, 4:10 p.m.(1/21/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Alexis
The Sword of Blancbier is a warrior of as much strength, fortitude, and dedication as one could want in the holder of a House's blade. I respect her deeply. But, more than that, she has a great heart, and I am proud to count Dame Alexis Wyrmfang as a friend.
Written By Esoka
Aug. 20, 2017, 3:30 p.m.(1/21/1007 AR)
I have never been to sea. I have not communed with Mangata with way the peoples of the Mourning Isles do. But I am a daughter of the rivers, of the Twins that flow into the heart of the Mother and give the peoples of Greenwood and Riven life and prosperity. Mangata sustains us.
It is with horror and revulsion that I've heard the tales of what happened in Her shrine, and to the Thrax ships upon the waves. Words are not enough, but my heart grieves for the loss. I pray the shrine is restored and the enemy that did this found and dealt with, in all the power and fury a torrent of waves can bring to bear.
It is with horror and revulsion that I've heard the tales of what happened in Her shrine, and to the Thrax ships upon the waves. Words are not enough, but my heart grieves for the loss. I pray the shrine is restored and the enemy that did this found and dealt with, in all the power and fury a torrent of waves can bring to bear.
Written By Esoka
Aug. 14, 2017, 11:23 a.m.(1/9/1007 AR)
Some of my fellow competitors in the Tournament of Roses melee have recorded their praise for the healers of our city, and I would add to that chorus. My hurts were tended expertly by Mother Mercy Sophie, Thena of the Godsworn, and Lady Reigna. I am sure others would have aided me had I required it, even pressed as they were with other patients. But my heart is even more grateful to them for coaxing my Count Thesarin back to consciousness. I had for a moment feared the worst might befall him.
I would also record my respect for the swords who finally pressed me into quitting the field. In truth I'm not sure if it was Dame Leta, Baron Silas, or the champion Prince Talen himself who struck the blow that made me yield. It was quite a scrum! There is no shame in bowing to an honorable and skilled opponent in a fair fight.
I look forward to taking the field with all of Arx's fine warriors again next year. All thanks to Prince Edain for doing the hero's work of seeing it to completion.
I would also record my respect for the swords who finally pressed me into quitting the field. In truth I'm not sure if it was Dame Leta, Baron Silas, or the champion Prince Talen himself who struck the blow that made me yield. It was quite a scrum! There is no shame in bowing to an honorable and skilled opponent in a fair fight.
I look forward to taking the field with all of Arx's fine warriors again next year. All thanks to Prince Edain for doing the hero's work of seeing it to completion.
Written By Esoka
Aug. 12, 2017, 10:49 p.m.(1/6/1007 AR)
The joust at the Tournament of Roses was grand, indeed. I competed and did all right. My first tilt again Silas, Baron of Whitehawk, ended with me the better. I regret that I faced him first, as it would have been fine if both of us had gone farther to represent Riven. But I was honored to ride against him, and against Sir Steve - a rather adorable Valardin knight - in the next match. I think he was a little afraid of me! But now that I've knocked him down and he's gotten back up again, we will be friends. This generally how I make friends.
My final tilt was against Royal Stablemaster Tristan, and I'm proud just to have tested my lance against his, even though I was unhorsed. He was the winner of the whole joust, coming out on top in the finals against a Valardin knight I did not know, Sir Tarrant Moore. Everyone will know Sir Moore's name now, with how he rode.
It was great fun, and I look forward to the coming melee. I pray Gloria and Limerance bless us with as fine a contest there as we had on the jousting field.
My final tilt was against Royal Stablemaster Tristan, and I'm proud just to have tested my lance against his, even though I was unhorsed. He was the winner of the whole joust, coming out on top in the finals against a Valardin knight I did not know, Sir Tarrant Moore. Everyone will know Sir Moore's name now, with how he rode.
It was great fun, and I look forward to the coming melee. I pray Gloria and Limerance bless us with as fine a contest there as we had on the jousting field.
Written By Esoka
Aug. 12, 2017, 2:16 a.m.(1/4/1007 AR)
The year has turned from 1006 to 1007. I tend not to think much of the passage of calendar dates. I mark years more at the melting of winter into spring, or at the turn of hunting seasons. But the date means it has been a full year since I came to Arx. It did not seem as if it had been that long, until I looked at the calendar.
Duty for the Rivens and the battle against the dark forces of the Silent Army brought me here. Duty has kept me here as well. That I hold to my House, and to the struggle against the shadowy forces that move in the world. And yet, I have a life here for myself now, too. Heron Hall has come to feel familiar. I've made good friends. And come to love one who is VERY much a city man.
I am happy enough with where I find myself as 1007 turns, in the balance of things.
Duty for the Rivens and the battle against the dark forces of the Silent Army brought me here. Duty has kept me here as well. That I hold to my House, and to the struggle against the shadowy forces that move in the world. And yet, I have a life here for myself now, too. Heron Hall has come to feel familiar. I've made good friends. And come to love one who is VERY much a city man.
I am happy enough with where I find myself as 1007 turns, in the balance of things.
Written By Esoka
July 31, 2017, 10:59 p.m.(12/10/1006 AR)
I had the honor of jousting against Edain Valardin today! I've worked to improve as a cavalry warrior since I gained my knighthood, but I'm still better afoot than on a horse. Still, I think I fared well in the first pass, and feel no shame at being unhorsed. The Prince of Sanctum rides with all the skill and knightly comportment one would expect, and it was a thrill to take the field in such a fashion. I look forward to the rest of the Tournament of Roses.
Written By Esoka
July 30, 2017, 7:14 p.m.(12/7/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Mia
The life I have made in the Compact has been built on the foundation of Countess Mia Riven, and her tireless efforts to keep her House strong. I am part of that strength now, and I pray I serve her well. I would also like to think us friends, after all these years. It does my heart good to have her running Heron Hall with all the industrious skill with which she leads the Twainfort.
Written By Esoka
July 26, 2017, 10:44 p.m.(11/27/1006 AR)
I made a rather good showing in the Iron Guard Pentathlon swimming competition, I think. I took the silver medal for second place, coming in behind only Princess Reese. If I had to take less than first, I'm pleased Grayson won the top spot. That woman swims like a fish! Dame Alexis Wyrmfang did Valardin credit, earning third. All in all, it was a fine, spirited competition from the men and women of Redrain, Velenosa, Valardin and Grayson. I am proud to have taken part. For kin and honor, and all thanks to the Iron Guard for providing us a field on which to excel.
Written By Esoka
July 23, 2017, 7:05 p.m.(11/21/1006 AR)
Heron Hall looks more like my proper home every day. There are many things I did not bother to send for when I was lodging at the Badger, but now they have been shipped and unpacked and my room looks like my own place. I have even acquired artwork. The trees do not look very much like actual trees, but they amuse me. Thesarin and Lord Nigel are here, and Countess Mia runs the house with all the unstoppable efficiency she showed for things at the Twainfort. Tikva is a Grayson now, which feels odd to write, but I wish my dearest friend the best, and I know she is respected and loved there. I wish her happiness and shall make a point of seeing her and Tiber often even if we are not under the same roof. I had for so long been rooted to one place that it takes me aback to take an account of how much of my life has shifted here over the past year. Lagoma changes you without you realizing it. I have accepted that it is good change and that I am happy in it.
Not that there aren't shadows in the back of my thoughts. Much danger still lurks in this world and I pray I'm strong enough to face it and protect those I love. By Gloria, I shall try.
Not that there aren't shadows in the back of my thoughts. Much danger still lurks in this world and I pray I'm strong enough to face it and protect those I love. By Gloria, I shall try.
Written By Esoka
July 21, 2017, 11:19 p.m.(11/17/1006 AR)
While the efforts to restore the Gray Forest have yielded much better health for it, dangers still remain. I was reminded of this when I joined one of the Grayson patrols into its depths this past week. We found a mother from a shav'arvani tribe and her two sons, who'd been set upon my monstrous, cursed beasts. We escorted them safely to the city, where they were tended to. I need to look in on them to see how they are faring. The Compact offers much in the way of security, but it can be frighteningly foreign if you are not accustomed to its ways.
As for the beasts, twisted creatures that they were, we managed to slay them. I fought beside Lord Commander Silas and Prince Luca with my blade, while Princess Lou Grayson and Lord Estaban Saik laid into them with arrows. And Prince Aiden Grayson worked to calm those wolves which could be turned peaceable, to remarkable effect.
For all that we were victorious over the cursed wolves themselves. But they were MADE that way by someone wielding very dark power, and that one we did not find.
I shall venture back to the forest again soon. My work is not done.
As for the beasts, twisted creatures that they were, we managed to slay them. I fought beside Lord Commander Silas and Prince Luca with my blade, while Princess Lou Grayson and Lord Estaban Saik laid into them with arrows. And Prince Aiden Grayson worked to calm those wolves which could be turned peaceable, to remarkable effect.
For all that we were victorious over the cursed wolves themselves. But they were MADE that way by someone wielding very dark power, and that one we did not find.
I shall venture back to the forest again soon. My work is not done.
Written By Esoka
July 16, 2017, 2:04 a.m.(11/6/1006 AR)
I will play this smells game! Scent is very powerful and it is most interesting to see what appeals to all the people of Arx.
For my part.
Leather and good pipe tobacco.
Coffee and cinnamon.
The river delta after a spring rain.
For my part.
Leather and good pipe tobacco.
Coffee and cinnamon.
The river delta after a spring rain.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.