Standing on the Shoulders of Giants
As I sat in my study, the soft glow of the lantern casting flickering shadows on the walls, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. Before me lay a stack of old parchments and scrolls, remnants of my youth spent under the tutelage of Jarvis Quan and Lady Janette. Each document held memories of my journey to becoming a scribe, a path filled with rigorous study, profound insights, and the occasional moment of levity.
I picked up the first scroll, its edges frayed with age. Unrolling it carefully, I recognized the meticulous handwriting of Jarvis Quan. His lessons were always thorough, his penmanship a testament to his dedication to the craft. This particular document was a treatise on the importance of record-keeping in Gorean society. Jarvis had always emphasized that a scribe’s duty was not just to record events, but to preserve the truth for future generations.
“Remember, Arealius,” Jarvis’s voice echoed in my mind, “a scribe’s work is the backbone of our civilization. Without accurate records, history becomes a mere collection of myths and legends.”
I smiled at the memory, recalling the countless hours spent in his study, poring over ancient texts and learning the nuances of Gorean script. Jarvis was a stern teacher, but his passion for knowledge was infectious.
Next, I turned to a parchment written by Lady Janette. Her handwriting was elegant, each letter flowing gracefully into the next. Lady Janette’s lessons were different from Jarvis’s; she focused on the philosophical and ethical aspects of being a scribe. This document was an essay on the moral responsibilities of those who wield the pen.
“Arealius,” she had once told me, “as scribes, we hold a great power. The power to shape minds and influence decisions. It is our duty to wield this power with integrity and wisdom.”
Her words had always resonated with me, guiding my actions and decisions throughout my career. Lady Janette had a way of making even the most complex philosophical concepts seem accessible and relevant.
As I continued to read through the documents, I came across my own early attempts at writing. The handwriting was shaky, the sentences awkward, but they were a testament to my growth and learning. I remembered the encouragement and constructive criticism from both Jarvis and Lady Janette, their patience as I struggled to find my voice.
One particular document caught my eye. It was a letter from Lady Janette, written during a particularly challenging period of my studies. I had been feeling overwhelmed, doubting my abilities and questioning my path. Her letter was a beacon of support and encouragement.
“Dear Arealius,” it began, “I know the journey you are on is not an easy one. But remember, every great scribe faced challenges and doubts. It is through overcoming these obstacles that we grow stronger and wiser. Trust in yourself and your abilities. You have the potential to achieve greatness.”
Her words had given me the strength to persevere, to push through the doubts and continue my studies with renewed determination.
As I sat there, surrounded by these relics of my past, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the guidance and wisdom imparted to me by Jarvis Quan and Lady Janette. Their teachings had shaped me into the scribe I am today, instilling in me a love for knowledge and a commitment to truth.
I carefully rolled up the parchments and placed them back in their protective cases. The lessons of my youth were not just memories; they were the foundation upon which I built my life and career. And as I continued my work, I carried with me the legacy of my mentors, striving to honor their teachings in all that I did.
Among the documents, I found one particularly cherished piece: my Assignment 2, an essay on the castes, colors, and caste laws of Gor. I remembered the pride I felt when Lady Janette had reviewed it. Her feedback was glowing:
“This is a splendid essay. Well researched and argued. Truly a pleasure to read, demonstrating understanding of the caste system and extremely well presented. Excellent, Sir.”
~Lady Jan
Her words of praise had been a significant milestone in my journey, a validation of my hard work and dedication. As I read her comments again, I felt a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to my role as a scribe, ever grateful for the mentors who had guided me along the way.
As I continued to sift through the documents, I came across a detailed description of the city of Vonda. Once a prominent city located on the northern bank of the Olni River, Vonda had been a vital hub for commerce and culture in the region. Its strategic position along the Olni River had made it a crucial point for trade routes, facilitating the movement of goods and people. This strategic location had contributed to its prosperity and significance in Gorean society.
Vonda had been renowned for its impressive architecture, featuring grand buildings and well-planned streets. The structures in Vonda reflected the city’s wealth and importance, with many buildings adorned with intricate designs and decorations. The city’s economy had thrived on trade, with merchants from various parts of Gor frequenting the city. The markets of Vonda had been bustling with activity, offering a wide range of goods, from everyday necessities to exotic items.
The city had also been a cultural center, hosting various festivals and events that attracted visitors from far and wide. These cultural gatherings showcased the city’s rich heritage and vibrant community life. Vonda had been governed by a City Administrator, a position held by none other than Jarvis Quan. His administration had been known for its efficiency and dedication to maintaining order and prosperity.
Given its strategic importance, Vonda had maintained a strong military presence to protect its interests and ensure the safety of its inhabitants. The city’s warriors had been well-trained and ready to defend against any threats. Vonda’s history had been marked by periods of growth and conflict, reflecting the broader dynamics of Gorean society. Its resilience and ability to adapt had allowed it to remain a key player in the region’s political and economic landscape.
But now, Vonda lay in ruins, a testament to the passage of time and the inevitable decline of even the greatest cities. Its once grand buildings had crumbled, and its bustling markets had fallen silent. The echoes of its vibrant past lingered in the memories of those who had known it, a reminder of the city’s former glory.
Reflecting on Vonda’s history, I felt a sense of melancholy for the lost grandeur of the city. Yet, I also felt a deep appreciation for the lessons it offered. The rise and fall of Vonda served as a poignant reminder of the impermanence of human endeavors and the enduring importance of preserving our history.
I recalled the last time I met Jarvis Quan. It was at his Gorean farm, a serene place where he had chosen to spend his retirement. We had a pleasant discussion about his farm and how he was spending his time since stepping down as City Administrator. Jarvis spoke fondly of the simple pleasures of farm life, tending to his crops and animals, and enjoying the tranquility that came with it. His eyes sparkled with contentment as he described the peace he had found away from the bustling city life.
As I carefully placed the documents back in their cases, I resolved to continue my work with renewed dedication, honoring the legacy of my mentors and the rich history of Gor. The memories of Jarvis and Lady Janette, along with the lessons from the past, would continue to guide me in my journey as a scribe.
~{O}~
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