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Regarding Sir Thorley

Posted by Ryhalt on 11/11/18
I am not Warwick Farshaw's son. When I became Duke, I was the last person to expect it. The first son of the third son, I remember at the time being so far down the line of succession that the thought had never occurred to me that I would wind up where I am now. If people wonder why I'm talking about this now, it is because of Sir Thorley, who today I publicly recognize as my cousin. Because Sir Thorley is of noble blood, if perhaps ignored because of my uncle's particular habits. And that's about the most pleasant way I can put that.

Sir Thorley as a son of Duke Warrick was a dirty secret, but an open secret. There have been a number of people who have known, myself included, but never said anything about it. This is not to condemm those people. I still, even now, understand, why it was done. But as the years have passed, I have thought a way to figure out how to give my cousin the respect he deserves, even if I could not risk a potential conflict regarding Farshaw succession. With Sir Thorley's elavation to Baron, that potential conflict has been forever removed.

I had thought, at the time, that making him a knight would suffice. It would not be a lot, but it would be something. And as the years have passed, I thought I could do more. So after his length of service, his skill with a sword, the sense of duty and loyalty out of Sir Thorley that I have only seen in stories. There were times I saw the man emulate Sir Cedric the Wanderer in his tenacity and courage. Few men in my life have strived so hard to overcome their own personal demons, nevermind how they were born. And there were times that my heart broke for him. That I could do no more.

I had sought the advice of my leaders and my betters. That there was more I could do. That I had wanted to stand shoulder to shoulder next to this man who is, and who has been my family. It was not until the Marquis Harthall brought about an idea. The Crimson Blades have done a great amount of good for House Harthall. This is open fact. In fact, the Blades have brought about a large expansion for Harthall in the recent months and he wanted to start organizing that land. So it was, as they say, no skin off his back to set aside a barony-sized amount of land for a new house. But someone to lead that house, that was issue. He had seen the accolades that Sir Thorley had done as a knight, as Sword of Westrock Reach, and during his time apart of the Blades, with his wife, the well-known and well-regarded Commandant Violet Sandreef-Marjawn.

So, in writing this, I know there is a certain worry among the peerage that feel there are too many commoners being elevated. And yes, I would agree with that. So I have no doubt that there will be a certain amount of negative press this will bring me. But Sir Thorley is my cousin, and he has always been my cousin, and he has been denied what has been rightfully his for far too many years. In doing this, the Marquis Harthall and myself have put not one, but two proven and dedicated leaders to guide a fledling barony in the new Baron and Baroness-Consort Farwatch. And I have full faith that they will both do well not only for Harthall and Farshaw, but also by Valardin and the Oathlands as a whole.

The horizon is ours. And now that horizon is brighter because of the inclusion of House Farwatch.

Signed by my hand,

Duke Ryhalt Farsahaw
Lord of Westrock Reach

--- Harthall Stance (from Orvyn) ---
It was a pleasure to find that such accolades could be given unto someone so deserving. We welcome House Farwatch and revel in honour restored!

--- Valardin Stance (from Alis) ---
House Valardin looks forward to seeing what Baron Thorley will acheive with his Barony, and offer our congratulations.

--- Redreef Stance (from Mikani) ---
We are glad to hear of Baron Thorley's Noble Blood and Noble Actions. Actions make one noble when blood does not seem to complete the task. Keep our Horizon safe.

--- Saik Stance (from Karadoc) ---
Nearwatch, Farwatch. Either way - Saik's going to watch the new Baron Thorley. He's going places.

--- Amadeo Stance (from Duarte) ---
Whatever the case may be, we admire a person who can triumph over what life throws their way and beat a path to securing their legacy as a member of the Peerage. Welcome, Lord Thorley.

--- Templars Stance (from Preston) ---
The failing involved in the creation of a bastard was the fault of Rymarr's uncle - Baron Thorley is his own man. Such irresponsible failings should be acknowledged as soon as possible however, so even as we wish the new Baron well, we hope others will learn from this sad affair.

--- Deepwood Stance (from Rymarr) ---
Having been witness to the level of bravery which Sir Thorley Sandreef is capable, we would like to welcome Baron Thorley and Baroness-Consort Violet Farwatch to the Peerage. It is our hope that prosperity will be yours.