My Dearest Cristina,

As you know, I recently loaded my wagon and made the long trek south to the southern borders of our fair Calontir. The journey started under cloudy skies, and though cold, the wind did not bite.

I paused at the estate of your cousin, Mistress Gyđa, the welcoming baroness of our neighboring Barony of Mag Mor. She and her goddaughter, Emma Underfoot, traveled much of the journey with me.

As our journey continued south, the winds blew strong and the skies opened. Soon the roads were deep in snow and our pace slowed. The wagon and horses proved true, plodding along, though blanketed themselves.

Having a cover o’er our wagon is ever a blessing from the gods, as we stayed warm and dry.

The snow continued for most of the rest of our over long journey, and our relief proved great when snow turned to rain and we at last arrived at the estates of the Baron and Baroness of Vatavia. Sir Uldin and Mistress Sung welcomed us with open arms, providing victuals and space for our bedding.

And finally the great day, impetus for my journey, arrived. The time had come for good King Xerxes and kind Queen Belanna to retire. The Coronation day of Their Heirs, Donngal and Catalina! The village square, cold but dry, proved a glorious setting for the days festivities!

During the morning, Their Royal Majesties Xerxes and Belana held Their last court, with tidings of joy! Good Mistress Ishmala‘s apprentice, the Honorable Lady Helena Soranzo was inducted into the Order of the Laurel. Then room fell silent as Their Graces said Their farewells to Their Household and stepped away from the thrones, leaving behind the trappings of state. The heralds then read out the Calontir lineage for all to hear.

Then up strode Brave Donngal toward the thrones! The guardians of our lands challenged him, and testaments were heard by all attending, that He was indeed the rightful Heir to the throne! It thrilled those gathered to see him step up and swear his oath to the populace and set crown on brow.

When he called forth Fair Catalina to stand by his side, the Fyrdmen of Calontir marched in her wake, showing her strength not only as an Artisan, but as a Leader of Warriors! As King Donngal placed the crown on Her head, She also swore Her oath to the populace. And cheers rang through the assembled.

The day was filled with food and greetings and laughter. Friends from around the known world had come together. Stories shared, lessons taught, and glasses raised.

In the evening, Their Majesties held court again in the square, recognizing individual gentles for their skills in the arts and sciences.

An Emissary from the southern kingdom of Ansteorra arrived during court, presenting gifts and asking for our aid. War is coming to Glenn Abhann!

King Donngal told the assembly he had heard these rumors, and appointed His Excellency, Sir Uldin, as his General. Cries of war rang through the square!

Queen Catalina will join Her Fyrdmen on the fields of battle! She called them forth to fight!

As the Emissary departed to inform his own king, the crowd quieted, and Mistress Dorcas stepped forth with her protege, Johann. They addressed the populace and spoke of the need for heralds in the upcoming wars. If one cannot fight, they can indeed still serve the kingdom by carrying words to the populace. Then she turned to Their Majesties and begged a boon! The Honorable Lord Johann is to be inducted into the Order of the Pelican!

Amid cheers and cries of war and cries of congratulations, court concluded. Tables were set up and the feasting commenced.

A glorious day!

And so now, my dearest friend, the sun has set and risen on a new day. We will load our belongings and turn our wagons back to the northern lands. The rider with whom I send this missive will arrive long before I set foot on mine own estates.

I pray the day finds you warm and safe and dry. May your home fires continue to warm your hearth and home until next we meet.