Duchy Ravenster

"Ravenster has iron in its veins and sunlight in its heart. Duke Glandyr commands respect; Duchess Kylesstra inspires devotion—and Kelric, well, I can vouch for him myself." — Sir Sorek Redmarch

House Ryomar, Duchy of Ravenster

The Duchy of Ravenster, ruled by Duke Glandyr Ryomar and his politically adept Duchess Kylesstra, is known for its unyielding strength, religious fervor, and unwavering loyalty to the crown. Ravenhold, their ancestral seat, is a formidable fortress that symbolizes their power and enduring legacy.

Rulers

• Duke Glandyr Ryomar – Stern and resolute, deeply respected but somewhat distant.
• Duchess Kylesstra Ryomar – Diplomatic, poised, and strategically astute; renowned for her balanced and compassionate rule.
• Capital: Ravenhold

"The Duchess plays chess while the rest of us fumble with dice. Underestimate her at your peril." — Count Tarleon Vinthel

Counties of Ravenster

County Gilton

Count Tarleon Vinthel and Countess Lorida Vinthel preside over Gilton, famed for its prosperous farms and abundant orchards.

• Heir: Sir Edric Vinthel (married to Lady Marienna Dreyden)
• Barony Myndar: Ruled by Baron Ostrel Faymar and Baroness Jorina Faymar from Myndar Hall. Known for fine woodworking and craftsmanship.
  • Heir: Lady Rosalin Faymar (married to Lord Osric Delgren)
• Barony Estrelan: Ruled by Baron Gralen Vorst and Baroness Tyrelle Vorst from Estrelan Tower, celebrated for its skilled archers and prestigious hunting lodges.
  • Heir: Ser Theodric Vorst (married to Lady Anessa Brialyn)

County Thalwynd

Count Loryk Krynvel and Countess Yelina Krynvel oversee Thalwynd, a region revered for its temples, shrines, and devout populace.

• Heir: Lady Evelisse Krynvel (married to Ser Artos Waynford)
• Barony Rystwell: Ruled by Baron Kelric Vorthal and Baroness Valeara Vorthal (née Redmarch) from Rystwell Court. Known for disciplined infantry and unwavering loyalty to Ravenster.
  • Heir: Ser Arthon Vorthal (betrothed to Lady Celisse Braemar) a year younger than his brother the baron, he is the current heir should there be no issue.
• Barony Eryndale: Ruled by Baron Kaldris Fenrow and Baroness Veyla Fenrow from Eryndale Manor, surrounded by fertile fields and prosperous villages.
  • Heir: None (childless; Baroness known for charitable acts)

"Kelric Vorthal may have married into valor, but he stands tall on his own merits. I wouldn't face his shieldwall lightly." — Baron Gralen Vorst

Religious Influence

The Duchy of Ravenster is among Gorundia's most devout regions. Nobility largely worships Heironeous, embodying honor, justice, and valor. Commoners favor Pelor, embracing warmth, charity, and healing, alongside veneration of the Velaeri—local saints renowned for their humble miracles and acts of selflessness.

Prominent Figures

• Lady Clerist Emelyn Brightshield – Revered priestess of Pelor, known for her tireless care of the poor and infirm.
• Sir Reynard Ironmantle – Paladin of Heironeous, leader of the duchy's elite guard and renowned for his bravery.
• Lady Marae Silverlight – Celebrated cleric of the Velaeri, respected mediator and healer.
• Lord Tarlys Wyvernhelm – Noted scholar and knight, famed for his histories of Ravenster and Gorundia.

"Faith is Ravenster's armor, and their knights are its sword. I'd trust their valor over another duchy's steel any day." — Count Vorias Serrin

Political Relations

Ravenster maintains robust political and familial bonds with the Crown, as Duke Glandyr is the king's brother. Duchess Kylesstra further fortifies their position through her influential ties with House Orenic.

• House Vogel: Relations are cool and pragmatic; mutual respect tempered by underlying rivalry and suspicion.
• House Orenic: Deep familial ties through Duchess Kylesstra, ensuring steadfast alliance and mutual support.
• House Allaric: Solid support for progressive policies, yet mindful of the duchy’s demographic challenges.

Leadership and Legacy

Duchess Kylesstra’s adept diplomacy complements Duke Glandyr's disciplined governance, making Ravenster a powerful, stable cornerstone of Gorundia. Her ability to balance ambition with compassion ensures that both nobles and commoners regard the duchy as a model of enlightened rulership.

"They say Ravenster is the shield of Gorundia. I say it's also the torch that lights our way." — Lady Sylvaris Dawnstar