The Red Wall
Posted by Ansel on 08/12/19
The Duke was many things to our House in his time. A teacher, a leader, an instructor, a fighter, and only when all other things had been accomplished, a father. In all things, a force to be reckoned with. Uncompromising and immutable. Resolute.
Growing up, I wished more for the latter role than any of the former, and quickly learned to accept disappointment -- a feeling I found constantly reciprocated. I feel he believed that if he had instead beaten me with books I may have learned to resent them more than I did him. Only once, in the span of a few moments, did he ever speak his intentions plainly to me. To teach, harshly if necessary, and to prepare.
Perhaps he may have never deemed any of his children ready, or fit to take up his mantle in his lifetime. In his absence, I am left to confront the void formed by removing the very foundations of our House, and to move the House forward into tomorrow. The Duke's will, kept secure by Prince Edain, has named me his heir to the Telmarch. His final instructions were to take up his armor and hammer, cease to be the Sword, and instead become the Red Wall.
I will give my utmost to fulfill my responsibilities to the Telmarch, to the Oathlands, and to the Valardin. However, I am no Duke Arn. I will not be Duke Arn. I will seek to honor the legacy of steadfast loyalty to the Oathlands left in the Duke's passing above all else. This begins by avenging the losses our House has suffered, and rebuilding our lands and families.
Honor will be our watchword. Today marks a new beginning for House Telmar.
Fear No Enemy.
Duke Ansel Telmar
--- Valardin Stance via Alis ---
House Valardin duly verifies the reading and execution of Duke Arn Telmar's Will, and stand firmly behind his appointed heir. Honor to the Telmarch, and Duke Ansel Telmar.
--- Laurent Stance via Cristoph ---
House Laurent welcomes Duke Ansel Telmar to his new role, even if we wish the circumstances different.
--- Mercy Stance via Sophie ---
The Mercies have every confidence that Duke Ansel Telmar will be a leader that exemplifies honor and strength. We will pray for Lagoma to ease the grief that always accompanies such losses as she ushers House Telmar through this transition.
--- Tyde Stance via Margot ---
It is hard lives and hard paths that beget hard people and hard people are necessary to lead through hard times.