The Avendale Royal Healers' Guild
A Personal Note to Avendale from the Guildmaster.
(As posted on March 29, 602)
I wish to take this opportunity to present my thanks to the Nobles, Citizens,
and Good Visitors to Avendale for their efforts, participation, and cooperation
in making the Royal Funeral Ceremony for our late Beloved Queen Niomi Avendale
as noteworthy an occasion as it was. I am assured by His Excellency that he
was most moved and comforted by the outpouring of sympathy and understanding
from all.
A moment for explanation regarding the circumstances of the ceremonies: My apologies
to anyone inconvenienced by the half-hour delay in starting the ceremony. Coordinating
the actions of so many participants made for a bit of a late start.
I have overheard some comments of surprise that the Funeral Marches were not
disturbed, as travelling by night, even in such a large group, can be dangerous
in this frontier region. I'm proud to report that this lack of "disturbance"
was not by coincidence, but by design. It should also be noted that while most
of the Guard was there, the full compliment of the Guard was not in the formal
procession. The remainder was under my orders to clear the procession route
of potential threats. One of the reasons for the delay in starting the ceremonies
was that I was awaiting the return of their scouting reports. It was a good
thing we had these patrols, as I later learned that at least two attempts were
made to attack the funeral procession. These threats were swiftly and efficiently
dealt with by these Guardians, who were joined by volunteer efforts of citizens
and visitors to Avendale in these secret patrols. So successful were they that
those participating in the processions, including His Excellency, were completely
unaware of these activities. The solemnity and dignity of the marches was preserved.
My personal commendations to the Guardians, Citizens, and Good Visitors who
put their own lives at risk, with no expectation of reward, in protecting the
Royal Funeral processions. Outstanding!
Earth Guard Captain Corwin Greylore fell ill just prior to the ceremony, and
regrets that he was unable to participate. He has since returned to good health,
and on his behalf I express his sincere thanks to the Guard for their exemplary
service during the Royal Funeral and throughout the Gathering.
All those who participated in the Royal Funeral are too numerous to name here,
but I trust that each and every one of you know how deeply I appreciate the
participation of one and all. Among the many of note, my personal thanks go
out to:
Those who served on the Honor Guard Vigil over Her Royal Majesty’s remains
since November.
The Earth Guard, both those of past service and those who joined this Gathering,
who were called upon for this solemn duty. In the procession, the ceremonies,
and in protecting both, you all performed with distinction. I’m proud of
you all.
My fellow Guildsmen, who led the procession bearing candles in memory of our
Beloved Queen, Benefactor, and Guildmember. I know how painful Her Majesty’s
passing was for our Guild. Be assured that your services during the ceremonies
were greatly appreciated by His Excellency and myself.
The Nobles and Citizens who shared with the Assemblage their memories and sadness,
both at the Ceremonies and in postings on this Tavern Wall. For many, expressing
such deeply held sorrow can be difficult. Be assured that your sentiments are
shared by many, and have helped to provide a goodly measure of healing and comfort
for His Excellency and Avendale.
The Visitors to Avendale who each expressed their sympathies to everyone. As
noted above, there were even those who were moved to put their own lives at
risk for the occasion. On behalf of His Excellency the Viscount, the Prince,
and All of Avendale, our heartfelt thanks.
And further personal gratitude to those I quickly recruited for the occasion:
the Regency Standard-bearer who led the procession, Guardian Leoric for so masterfully
coordinating the procession security, Sasqueel for his fine services as procession
drummer (well done!), and the Guardians to whom I entrusted the flowers.
Some may say that a “frontier” town could not possibly perform a proper
Royal Ceremony - of this or any kind. While we may not have the finery of a
city like Evendarr, I am proud to say that the performance of the Nobles, Citizenry,
and Visitors of Avendale at this Ceremony could not be improved upon. It was
sorrowful, but a truly Royal occasion – where all of Avendale came together
in solemn rememberance of our late, beloved Queen.
As I said at the closing, “Your Excellency, all Avendale mourns with you.”
Through actions, words, and deeds, the truth of that statement was surely demonstrated.
May His Excellency Viscount Septorian, the Prince, Nobility, Citizenry,
and Friends of Avendale long and fondly remember the life and reign
of Her Most Royal Majesty, Queen Niomi Avendale.
Though now it is for her spirit and memory, we still say,
“Long live the Queen!”
~Andvar~
Guildmaster, Avendale Royal Healers' Guild