Written By Samantha
March 23, 2017, 12:29 p.m.(2/22/1006 AR)
30,000.
I stare at the report in front of me, unable to believe what has been accomplished.
30,000 Abandoned have bent the knee and taken up the laws and loyalties of the Compact. 5,000 of that number have taken up the southern defense of the March, nipping at the heels of Brand's army. Some less of that have pushed on to provide aid to Arx, though some fear they will be mistaken for Abandoned rather than newly Prodigal. I will make sure they have some kind of mark upon them of the Deepwood colors and sigil so that they are not confused for foe instead of friend.
With the support of House Riven, I opened the way for the Abandoned of the Gray Forest to come into my lands as refugees. I did not demand they bend the knee, but did insist they act as guests - follow the laws of the land and refrain from any practices that were anathema to the Pantheon. This gave us the opportunity to show them the benefits of the Compact, to offer diplomacy and recognize them as people. To Prove to them that the Compact can be compassionate, a uniting force, a light against the darkness.
And they bent knee. I am pleased to have achieved what I had hoped, and daunted by the idea that this is an event worthy of remark in our history. Humbled by the weight of that, and the trust these people have put in me and mine.
House Riven has served me beyond my wildest expectations. I only hope that I continue to be worthy of their loyalty.
I stare at the report in front of me, unable to believe what has been accomplished.
30,000 Abandoned have bent the knee and taken up the laws and loyalties of the Compact. 5,000 of that number have taken up the southern defense of the March, nipping at the heels of Brand's army. Some less of that have pushed on to provide aid to Arx, though some fear they will be mistaken for Abandoned rather than newly Prodigal. I will make sure they have some kind of mark upon them of the Deepwood colors and sigil so that they are not confused for foe instead of friend.
With the support of House Riven, I opened the way for the Abandoned of the Gray Forest to come into my lands as refugees. I did not demand they bend the knee, but did insist they act as guests - follow the laws of the land and refrain from any practices that were anathema to the Pantheon. This gave us the opportunity to show them the benefits of the Compact, to offer diplomacy and recognize them as people. To Prove to them that the Compact can be compassionate, a uniting force, a light against the darkness.
And they bent knee. I am pleased to have achieved what I had hoped, and daunted by the idea that this is an event worthy of remark in our history. Humbled by the weight of that, and the trust these people have put in me and mine.
House Riven has served me beyond my wildest expectations. I only hope that I continue to be worthy of their loyalty.
Written By Samantha
March 13, 2017, 5:04 p.m.(2/2/1006 AR)
I miss him.
I miss him, despite the fact that we write to each other in a fairly steady stream of correspondence; I miss him despite the fact that he's not even halfway across the city. I miss him for many of the reasons of why I love him; his honesty, his devotion, his honor, and his awareness of his duty.
But it is difficult, when in those moments in the dark when even though your home is filled with people, you feel alone, and you have become accustomed to the weight of another person next to you. I occupy my thoughts by fulfilling my obligations, as I am certain he also does, and while my duties are also my joy, the appreciation I have for them is only heightened by the prospect of a true partner.
Some would say that this is the price you pay for love, but I don't think so. I love my foster family with all of my heart, but I believe that my yearning for family, family that I am tied to by blood, and to know who I am through that, has been at the core of my loneliness for many years.
I must master it, before it is used as a weapon against me.
I miss him, despite the fact that we write to each other in a fairly steady stream of correspondence; I miss him despite the fact that he's not even halfway across the city. I miss him for many of the reasons of why I love him; his honesty, his devotion, his honor, and his awareness of his duty.
But it is difficult, when in those moments in the dark when even though your home is filled with people, you feel alone, and you have become accustomed to the weight of another person next to you. I occupy my thoughts by fulfilling my obligations, as I am certain he also does, and while my duties are also my joy, the appreciation I have for them is only heightened by the prospect of a true partner.
Some would say that this is the price you pay for love, but I don't think so. I love my foster family with all of my heart, but I believe that my yearning for family, family that I am tied to by blood, and to know who I am through that, has been at the core of my loneliness for many years.
I must master it, before it is used as a weapon against me.
Written By Samantha
March 6, 2017, 4:14 p.m.(1/16/1006 AR)
I have noticed a pattern amongst no few (but not all) of the male nobles of my acquaintance, and I find it both wearying and worrisome.
Why when engaging in conversation with me, do they feel inclined to talk to me as if I am ignorant of the topic being discussed and require instruction? I'm not afraid to invite instruction if I feel I need it, but to assume I am uneducated, particularly in the subjects that are most directly relevant to my March's concerns, is simply baffling to me.
Old Oak is expansive, prosperous, and hosts a well educated, generally content population. It's not because I'm particularly a genius, but a large part of that is because I work hard for my vassals and initially while under Iona and Gabriel's tutelage and then later of my own initiative, made a point of learning such skills.
I have a feeling were I to put a pin on the habit when it occurs, those that engage in it won't see it as I do. I will endeavor to be patient.
I am having to endeavor to be patient with many things these days.
Why when engaging in conversation with me, do they feel inclined to talk to me as if I am ignorant of the topic being discussed and require instruction? I'm not afraid to invite instruction if I feel I need it, but to assume I am uneducated, particularly in the subjects that are most directly relevant to my March's concerns, is simply baffling to me.
Old Oak is expansive, prosperous, and hosts a well educated, generally content population. It's not because I'm particularly a genius, but a large part of that is because I work hard for my vassals and initially while under Iona and Gabriel's tutelage and then later of my own initiative, made a point of learning such skills.
I have a feeling were I to put a pin on the habit when it occurs, those that engage in it won't see it as I do. I will endeavor to be patient.
I am having to endeavor to be patient with many things these days.
Written By Samantha
March 6, 2017, 3:42 p.m.(1/16/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Alaric
His Majesty and I have known each other for a long time. As Duke Bisland's foster daughter and a close friend of Dawn, my degree of separation has been minimal. Alaric used to flirt with me incessantly, and I would laugh and dismiss him. He found the game of it delightful, but I would frequently disappoint him with my insistence that I tend to my duties, perhaps because he seemed so distracted regarding his own. He may have been flippant and indulgent, but he was also kind. I'd like to think over time, he would have - no, he will - learn to become all that any could hope for.
Now he has awakened, and I wonder who he is now. I can't imagine after everything that's happened that he is anything like who he has been before. I hope he will be able to accept visitors soon, because I think he could use a familiar presence, a friendly face. Especially with Dawn having taken up her travels.
Now he has awakened, and I wonder who he is now. I can't imagine after everything that's happened that he is anything like who he has been before. I hope he will be able to accept visitors soon, because I think he could use a familiar presence, a friendly face. Especially with Dawn having taken up her travels.
Written By Samantha
March 2, 2017, 10:20 a.m.(1/8/1006 AR)
I was prevented departure to the royal wedding due to a need for conflict resolution amongst some of the refugees I am hosting. Fortunately, it all worked out, but it took several hours to make the people involved see reason. Still, Lady Cara - no, Princess Cara - has been a marvelous friend to me and I wish her all the best. I've never really gotten to know Larric, but she has deemed him worthy, which means he's worth getting to know. I shall have to have them both over for dinner to celebrate them.
I am a bit wistful, I think, of all the people who have found partners they have formed a lasting bond with. Maybe it's something in the air? Or perhaps a need for something permanent and strong, in the face of the uncertainty of our lives in recent days. I find myself longing for this. It's a girlish fantasy, I imagine.
I must be patient.
I am a bit wistful, I think, of all the people who have found partners they have formed a lasting bond with. Maybe it's something in the air? Or perhaps a need for something permanent and strong, in the face of the uncertainty of our lives in recent days. I find myself longing for this. It's a girlish fantasy, I imagine.
I must be patient.
Written By Samantha
Feb. 27, 2017, 12:52 p.m.(1/2/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Edain
About a month ago, I struck up a conversation with Prince Edain about his owl and expressed my interest in raptors. I've built a mews on my property and intend to house more than one bird within it, as the hawkling Lady Aislin has promised me should be ready for training any day now. There are also plans for an indoor bird, but more on that another time.
Prince Edain kindly gifted me with one of his own Sir Roland's offspring, a female owlet I've named Couquette. I've placed stands in a few of my more commonly frequented rooms for her to perch on when I'm not keeping her on my arm or shoulder, per his instructions so that she bonds to me properly.
A few people have had an opportunity to meet her, and while she is thoroughly charming, I am confused by some of the reactions. People - well, men, mostly - seem quite puzzled by the idea that His Highness would grace me with such a gift without there being some other intent to it. While the Prince is kind, handsome, pious, and valorous, it is ludicrous to think he would take to courting anyone so soon after the Archduchess' passing, and I imagine the standard of comparison even if he was would be far higher than myself. How hard is it for people to understand that sometimes, a gift is just a gift, meant in graciousness and appreciation for a shared interest and casual friendship?
Prince Edain kindly gifted me with one of his own Sir Roland's offspring, a female owlet I've named Couquette. I've placed stands in a few of my more commonly frequented rooms for her to perch on when I'm not keeping her on my arm or shoulder, per his instructions so that she bonds to me properly.
A few people have had an opportunity to meet her, and while she is thoroughly charming, I am confused by some of the reactions. People - well, men, mostly - seem quite puzzled by the idea that His Highness would grace me with such a gift without there being some other intent to it. While the Prince is kind, handsome, pious, and valorous, it is ludicrous to think he would take to courting anyone so soon after the Archduchess' passing, and I imagine the standard of comparison even if he was would be far higher than myself. How hard is it for people to understand that sometimes, a gift is just a gift, meant in graciousness and appreciation for a shared interest and casual friendship?
Written By Samantha
Feb. 21, 2017, 6:22 p.m.(12/18/1005 AR)
I am part of many endeavors to secure the prosperity of members of the Compact, especially those who do not always have the fortune to be born into a prosperous family or somehow wind up as the would-be replacement of a nobleborn. The Crown as well as many noble individuals have taken it upon themselves to develop charity programs and provide aid to those in Arvum who need help the most, or even just the merest opportunity to have a chance and pull themselves out of an unfortunate circumstance.
One would think such efforts of social consciousness would be pleasing to the Faith, to witness its followers actively promoting compassion and aiding in the betterment of humanity. Wouldn't one?
Imagine my surprise to find I have recieved, or heard of messages from members of the Faith complaining that for the Crown or private individuals to create charitable institutions is to overstep into their territory.
Imagine my surprise to be given such a reason as the idea that while the Faith will never falter, but a simple regime change could remove such institutions. As if any effort of aid isn't worth offering because it might be dismantled?
I do not understand such hubris, and will continue to do as my heart and my soul guides me.
One would think such efforts of social consciousness would be pleasing to the Faith, to witness its followers actively promoting compassion and aiding in the betterment of humanity. Wouldn't one?
Imagine my surprise to find I have recieved, or heard of messages from members of the Faith complaining that for the Crown or private individuals to create charitable institutions is to overstep into their territory.
Imagine my surprise to be given such a reason as the idea that while the Faith will never falter, but a simple regime change could remove such institutions. As if any effort of aid isn't worth offering because it might be dismantled?
I do not understand such hubris, and will continue to do as my heart and my soul guides me.
Written By Samantha
Feb. 19, 2017, 9:53 p.m.(12/15/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Edain
I cannot say I have ever really had an opportunity to speak to Prince Edain in anything other than polite passing and when addressed in Assembly. I knew what all others know, that he is a devout man, a compassionate man, a man who has recently suffered great loss, and is dedicated to serving his people.
But having the fortune of spending some time with him just a few days ago, I am not surprised to find that we are like-minded in many opinions and that he is highly enjoyable to talk to. Sincerity and empathy have power that so few people understand. We've been corresponding about my gradually growing menagerie, which for the most part presently consists of birds. Sir Roland's mate had hatched some owlets, and he gifted me with a little beauty I have named Coquette.
But having the fortune of spending some time with him just a few days ago, I am not surprised to find that we are like-minded in many opinions and that he is highly enjoyable to talk to. Sincerity and empathy have power that so few people understand. We've been corresponding about my gradually growing menagerie, which for the most part presently consists of birds. Sir Roland's mate had hatched some owlets, and he gifted me with a little beauty I have named Coquette.
Written By Samantha
Feb. 19, 2017, 9:43 p.m.(12/14/1005 AR)
The Harvest Festival seemed to go quite well, so I suppose it's vain to wish that there had been more people. I had truly hoped more would be interested in a slice of Crownlands culture, but there will be other events in the future, and it would be a far cry not to call this one a success.
There were many faces that I hadn't seen in some time, as well as a few new ones. But I must admit, the highlight of the evening for me was RIDING A BEAR. I RODE A BEAR. It seems like a once in a lifetime experience and I will remember it until the day I do.
As a sidenote: Sir Rymarr Lyonesse eats pie in a manner that borders on the pornographic. In case anyone wished to know.
There were many faces that I hadn't seen in some time, as well as a few new ones. But I must admit, the highlight of the evening for me was RIDING A BEAR. I RODE A BEAR. It seems like a once in a lifetime experience and I will remember it until the day I do.
As a sidenote: Sir Rymarr Lyonesse eats pie in a manner that borders on the pornographic. In case anyone wished to know.
Written By Samantha
Feb. 17, 2017, 11:13 a.m.(12/10/1005 AR)
Many have questioned my wisdom by choosing to allow shav'arvani refugees into the March in addition to the Compact's citizens. This is an understandable fear, because they have been our enemies for a very long time. But now we are faced with the Bringers, and they are beings that all of humanity, not just exclusively those of the Compact, must rise up to defeat.
I said it in Assembly, I will say it again here: We do not make peace with our friends. We make peace with our enemies.
This is my intention; by affirming that I will not require any Abandoned who seeks refuge to bend knee and declare themselves Prodigal, and so long as they adhere to the law of my land while within my my borders, they may seek it in safety. Has anyone else noticed that the Bringers have none amongst them who are children, who are elderly, who are any way infirm? It's because they slaughter them.
It is my hope that we can convince the shav'arvani to join us in the fight against the Bringers. When it is over, they have agreed to leave my borders should they continue to be Abandoned, but I am prepared to force an exit if necessary.
If I lead by example, and show the worth of the Compact as embodied in my own acts and deeds and those of my people, I believe may convince many to join the Compact willingly, and not as a condition for their aid.
I know that many believe that my choice to be kind and merciful and to look at those around me and see people is a weakness that I will pay a heavy price for. But I believe that the choice to be kind and honorable is something only the strong can truly undertake, and the treasure one can reap as reward is well worth the weight upon my back.
Do not mistake kindness for weakness, my friends.
I said it in Assembly, I will say it again here: We do not make peace with our friends. We make peace with our enemies.
This is my intention; by affirming that I will not require any Abandoned who seeks refuge to bend knee and declare themselves Prodigal, and so long as they adhere to the law of my land while within my my borders, they may seek it in safety. Has anyone else noticed that the Bringers have none amongst them who are children, who are elderly, who are any way infirm? It's because they slaughter them.
It is my hope that we can convince the shav'arvani to join us in the fight against the Bringers. When it is over, they have agreed to leave my borders should they continue to be Abandoned, but I am prepared to force an exit if necessary.
If I lead by example, and show the worth of the Compact as embodied in my own acts and deeds and those of my people, I believe may convince many to join the Compact willingly, and not as a condition for their aid.
I know that many believe that my choice to be kind and merciful and to look at those around me and see people is a weakness that I will pay a heavy price for. But I believe that the choice to be kind and honorable is something only the strong can truly undertake, and the treasure one can reap as reward is well worth the weight upon my back.
Do not mistake kindness for weakness, my friends.
Written By Samantha
Feb. 14, 2017, 5:13 p.m.(12/4/1005 AR)
I know my eloquence is spoken of, but hope that I will be forgiven if I find myself unable to bring it to bear.
I can only weep for those who we have lost, who I have called my friend, and hope that even though I do not stand on the battlefield, what I am capable of doing continues to honor them.
I can only weep for those who we have lost, who I have called my friend, and hope that even though I do not stand on the battlefield, what I am capable of doing continues to honor them.
Written By Samantha
Feb. 12, 2017, 11:56 p.m.(12/1/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Ford
I suspect if one were to look at a prime candidate for the possible positive evolution of a culture, he would be an excellent example to cite.
He also dances very well.
He also dances very well.
Written By Samantha
Jan. 26, 2017, 10:46 a.m.(10/7/1005 AR)
Apparently I have tread upon the toes of the Faith by way of the establishment and my work with the Ministry of Civil Development. I am arrogant for assuming that the established programs of the Faith might not be ideal in its functioning and that Crown sponsored programs to improve the lives of the people of Arvum might be able to improve people's lives. The Faith has lasted a thousand years, and if a regime change saw fit, they could disband the Ministry with a word, leaving our programs hanging and lost to the people who depend upon them.
I just want to use the power I have to do right by this world and our people.
I just want to use the power I have to do right by this world and our people.
Written By Samantha
Jan. 23, 2017, 4:18 p.m.(9/27/1005 AR)
What we have here is an excellent example of an old saying in Deepwood: "Don't lose the forest for the trees." Translated; don't pay so much attention to the individual details that you lose sight of the bigger picture. (The reverse is also true, pay too much attention to the broad scope of what you see and you lose important detail.)
It is entirely reasonable, given the weight of condemning evidence, to look at an exorbitant expense on behalf of a singular Templar and merit it worthy of investigation. It is equally reasonable to simply produce the information regarding the details of the transaction and reasonable assurance from trusted sources that it was a legitimate purchase that the Faith as a whole validates.
However, this does not mean that all other evidence that condemns the Dominus is to be automatically dismissed. His writings and his actions prove him to be heretical and unworthy of the lofty, sacred position he holds. The Faith has taken a blow - and the person I frankly feel most sorry for is Sir Preston; who I believe is sincere in his actions and his piety. That he has unknowingly come under the patronage and influence of this corrupt man should be regarded with sympathy and empathy.
If there are those who would dispute the evidence of Fawkul's own hand, I'm sure we would all be interested in seeing their proof.
It is entirely reasonable, given the weight of condemning evidence, to look at an exorbitant expense on behalf of a singular Templar and merit it worthy of investigation. It is equally reasonable to simply produce the information regarding the details of the transaction and reasonable assurance from trusted sources that it was a legitimate purchase that the Faith as a whole validates.
However, this does not mean that all other evidence that condemns the Dominus is to be automatically dismissed. His writings and his actions prove him to be heretical and unworthy of the lofty, sacred position he holds. The Faith has taken a blow - and the person I frankly feel most sorry for is Sir Preston; who I believe is sincere in his actions and his piety. That he has unknowingly come under the patronage and influence of this corrupt man should be regarded with sympathy and empathy.
If there are those who would dispute the evidence of Fawkul's own hand, I'm sure we would all be interested in seeing their proof.
Written By Samantha
Jan. 18, 2017, 1:23 p.m.(9/12/1005 AR)
Many things are happening now that will have an effect on the state of Arvum. Some will think me superficial because I do not write to discuss them, but rather to speak of something personal, possibly girlish in consideration. But my need to put my thoughts down doesn't mean that I don't care about what has passed - I think anyone who knows me knows better than to think so.
I have been pondering the nature of love.
I thought I loved someone, but have come to realize it was an infatuation. Built I think, from a kind of hero-worship that occurred in childhood, and easily flourished by manner and appearance. Confession lead to rejection as kind as can be offered given the circumstances, and if affection at times lingers, I truly endeavor to bear no grudge or resentment. As time passes, I see the points at which we would be incompatible in our natures for such an involvement, or even that while it might have been mutually satisfying on a physical level, I think emotionally it would have left much to be desired for both of us.
Only weeks later, I met someone else. We became acquaintances, then friends, and then...something more. His belief in the nature and purpose of nobility, his honor, his bravery - they remind me a great deal of Gabriel. We talk about our mutual cares, and find ourselves engaging in efforts to bolster up the other. I inspire him. He inspires me. When we touch, it feels sacred.
I do not know what the future holds, or if there even is a future. But now I know the difference, I think, between infatuation and love.
I have been pondering the nature of love.
I thought I loved someone, but have come to realize it was an infatuation. Built I think, from a kind of hero-worship that occurred in childhood, and easily flourished by manner and appearance. Confession lead to rejection as kind as can be offered given the circumstances, and if affection at times lingers, I truly endeavor to bear no grudge or resentment. As time passes, I see the points at which we would be incompatible in our natures for such an involvement, or even that while it might have been mutually satisfying on a physical level, I think emotionally it would have left much to be desired for both of us.
Only weeks later, I met someone else. We became acquaintances, then friends, and then...something more. His belief in the nature and purpose of nobility, his honor, his bravery - they remind me a great deal of Gabriel. We talk about our mutual cares, and find ourselves engaging in efforts to bolster up the other. I inspire him. He inspires me. When we touch, it feels sacred.
I do not know what the future holds, or if there even is a future. But now I know the difference, I think, between infatuation and love.
Written By Samantha
Jan. 17, 2017, 3:30 p.m.(9/9/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Donella
While we do not agree on many things, I find that there is much to admire about Princess Donella. To say she has a similar sense of fashion is not the artificial remark as it seems - rather, she understands the use of it as a tool, to be taken out when it is needed and put away once more when it is not. She conducts conversations about serious topics when there is diametric opposition with respect for the person on the other side, and presents her own arguments effectively.
Frankly, her remarks regarding the actions of the Faith today made me want to kiss her on the mouth.
Frankly, her remarks regarding the actions of the Faith today made me want to kiss her on the mouth.
Written By Samantha
Jan. 16, 2017, 3:38 p.m.(9/6/1005 AR)
It may amuse some to know that from the age of five until I was fifteen, I lived at Pridehall with the Duke and Duchess of Bisland as my surrogate parents, and their children as my siblings. These were some of the happiest days of my life.
The Bislands are responsible for fostering and mentoring many of the noble children of the Crownlands. Princess Dawn, Prince Barric, Prince Ainsley, and Lord Killian, alongside Lady Lailah and Lord Michael, made ourselves something of a group, though Killian often remained at the edge, and Lailah despite being only a year younger than Michael, was considered quite young by the rest of us.
We all had our duties. To learn the arts of diplomacy, to learn the arts of war. To understand noble etiquette. To learn what would be expected of us, the future of the Crownlands. But in the times between lessons, that is when we were a force to be reckoned with.
We explored Pridehall, and the land around it. Stole sweets from the kitchen, or charmed them out of the cook. Climbed trees. Played at being great adventurers, knights, and pirates. Comforted each other when we awoke from nightmares, teased each other sometimes kiddingly, sometimes cruelly. And of course, there was what happened to That Frog...though a solemn vow of childhood demands I never speak to those particulars. I shall take it to my grave.
I wonder how the others regard this time in their lives. I hope that one day when I have children, they can have the chance for some of the joy I was privileged to experience. I see the fruits of those friendships to this day, and I feel blessed for it.
The Bislands are responsible for fostering and mentoring many of the noble children of the Crownlands. Princess Dawn, Prince Barric, Prince Ainsley, and Lord Killian, alongside Lady Lailah and Lord Michael, made ourselves something of a group, though Killian often remained at the edge, and Lailah despite being only a year younger than Michael, was considered quite young by the rest of us.
We all had our duties. To learn the arts of diplomacy, to learn the arts of war. To understand noble etiquette. To learn what would be expected of us, the future of the Crownlands. But in the times between lessons, that is when we were a force to be reckoned with.
We explored Pridehall, and the land around it. Stole sweets from the kitchen, or charmed them out of the cook. Climbed trees. Played at being great adventurers, knights, and pirates. Comforted each other when we awoke from nightmares, teased each other sometimes kiddingly, sometimes cruelly. And of course, there was what happened to That Frog...though a solemn vow of childhood demands I never speak to those particulars. I shall take it to my grave.
I wonder how the others regard this time in their lives. I hope that one day when I have children, they can have the chance for some of the joy I was privileged to experience. I see the fruits of those friendships to this day, and I feel blessed for it.
Written By Samantha
Jan. 12, 2017, 10:21 a.m.(8/21/1005 AR)
I think I may have been the last person to see Countess Nekarris alive.
I should have known. I should have realized, when she mentioned she was leaving the city, what she was intending to do.
She was far more clever than many in her life gave her credit for, I think.
I should have known. I should have realized, when she mentioned she was leaving the city, what she was intending to do.
She was far more clever than many in her life gave her credit for, I think.
Written By Samantha
Jan. 8, 2017, 1:10 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
There are many who have wondered at the full story of my origin, and so I offer it now in the White Journal, to the edification of any who care to read it.
I was born at Deepwood, at around the same time as Samantha Deepwood and given the name Ivy. My mother was a servant of the House, my father unknown - though it has been speculated by many that given my uncanny resemblance to the original Samantha, it is likely that my father was the Marquis as well. Samantha was born with a birthmark on her right thigh - a star just like that which represents one of the Lost Gods. This was the deity worshipped by the Rex'alfar before they turned to the Silence, and despite the Marquessa's efforts to hide her daughter's birthmark, they found out, and set their agents to the purpose of murdering Samantha Deepwood.
They infiltrated the household by the time she and I were five years old. I don't know how they did it, only that when the Marquis heard that shavs (manipulated by the Rex'alfar and the Rex'alfar's agents) were coming to destroy Old Oak and the family, they managed to convince him that the best course of action was to sneak the family out disguised as commoners, and use decoys in their place at the manor. This would deliver them to the human agents of the Rex'alfar, who slaughtered every single one of them.
As a child, I was solicited, tricked, and manipulated into becoming Samantha's decoy. I was told repeatedly that I was Samantha, cultivated both through punishment and reward into beieving it. I believe their intention was to see me grow into adulthood as a dedicated servant of the Rex'alfar, infiltrate the noble class, and be a poison from within. They then proceeded to torture and kill the other decoys, a sight I witnessed with my own eyes and haunts my nightmares even to this day. But they were not expecting the arrival of Duke Bisland - or if they were, they could not predict the result. He and his forces destroyed those remaining and rescued me, amidst the blood and torture and horror. I spent much of the rest of my childhood at Pridehall, the foster daughter of the Duke and Duchess, and the foster sibling of their natural born children. And for much of that time, I genuinely believed myself to be Samantha Deepwood. As I entered womanhood, I was able to realize that this was a falsehood.
But by this time, it was too late for me. I had come so far, been raised as Samantha, and had been Samantha for most of my life. The penalties for impersonating a noble, however unintentionally, were harsh - death, at the worst. I was trapped in this life, and so I decided the best thing I could do was use the principles taught to me by House Bisland - about honor, duty, and loyalty - to be what I believed the nobility should be; people with the power to raise those beneath them for the better, to protect them and care for them. If you are given power, it should be used to do good in this world.
Shortly after I came to Arx, I was contacted by a man who knew my birthname. He tried to extort me into betraying the people of Arvum by forcing me to push the agenda of the Rex'alfar - encouraged me to promote military action in the Gray Forest to the Crown, or he would reveal my true origin. While the King's Rest allowed me some means of belaying him, when Lady Dawn became Regent, I knew the time would come when I could no longer keep him patient.
That man is Chanse Grayhope. He is currently at large, and it is my sincere wish that he is brought to justice. He is an agent of the Rex'alfar, and I believe I may not be the only person of noble rank in this city he has tried to extort on their behalf.
This is my story, for good or ill. It is my hope that people recognize that if the Rex'alfar are willing to go as far as they have, they truly fear the Teind, which means it obviously holds some power to stop them. This is not an idle thing to dismiss. May the gods help us all in our time of need.
I was born at Deepwood, at around the same time as Samantha Deepwood and given the name Ivy. My mother was a servant of the House, my father unknown - though it has been speculated by many that given my uncanny resemblance to the original Samantha, it is likely that my father was the Marquis as well. Samantha was born with a birthmark on her right thigh - a star just like that which represents one of the Lost Gods. This was the deity worshipped by the Rex'alfar before they turned to the Silence, and despite the Marquessa's efforts to hide her daughter's birthmark, they found out, and set their agents to the purpose of murdering Samantha Deepwood.
They infiltrated the household by the time she and I were five years old. I don't know how they did it, only that when the Marquis heard that shavs (manipulated by the Rex'alfar and the Rex'alfar's agents) were coming to destroy Old Oak and the family, they managed to convince him that the best course of action was to sneak the family out disguised as commoners, and use decoys in their place at the manor. This would deliver them to the human agents of the Rex'alfar, who slaughtered every single one of them.
As a child, I was solicited, tricked, and manipulated into becoming Samantha's decoy. I was told repeatedly that I was Samantha, cultivated both through punishment and reward into beieving it. I believe their intention was to see me grow into adulthood as a dedicated servant of the Rex'alfar, infiltrate the noble class, and be a poison from within. They then proceeded to torture and kill the other decoys, a sight I witnessed with my own eyes and haunts my nightmares even to this day. But they were not expecting the arrival of Duke Bisland - or if they were, they could not predict the result. He and his forces destroyed those remaining and rescued me, amidst the blood and torture and horror. I spent much of the rest of my childhood at Pridehall, the foster daughter of the Duke and Duchess, and the foster sibling of their natural born children. And for much of that time, I genuinely believed myself to be Samantha Deepwood. As I entered womanhood, I was able to realize that this was a falsehood.
But by this time, it was too late for me. I had come so far, been raised as Samantha, and had been Samantha for most of my life. The penalties for impersonating a noble, however unintentionally, were harsh - death, at the worst. I was trapped in this life, and so I decided the best thing I could do was use the principles taught to me by House Bisland - about honor, duty, and loyalty - to be what I believed the nobility should be; people with the power to raise those beneath them for the better, to protect them and care for them. If you are given power, it should be used to do good in this world.
Shortly after I came to Arx, I was contacted by a man who knew my birthname. He tried to extort me into betraying the people of Arvum by forcing me to push the agenda of the Rex'alfar - encouraged me to promote military action in the Gray Forest to the Crown, or he would reveal my true origin. While the King's Rest allowed me some means of belaying him, when Lady Dawn became Regent, I knew the time would come when I could no longer keep him patient.
That man is Chanse Grayhope. He is currently at large, and it is my sincere wish that he is brought to justice. He is an agent of the Rex'alfar, and I believe I may not be the only person of noble rank in this city he has tried to extort on their behalf.
This is my story, for good or ill. It is my hope that people recognize that if the Rex'alfar are willing to go as far as they have, they truly fear the Teind, which means it obviously holds some power to stop them. This is not an idle thing to dismiss. May the gods help us all in our time of need.
Written By Samantha
Jan. 6, 2017, 12:33 a.m.(8/2/1005 AR)
I think I'm about to find out who my real friends are.
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