Duchy of Valwyck

March 30, 2023

Written by @Piov and @indiana105

Formatted by @kaylacita

“Ri Beinn, Abhainn, Agus Gual”

Motto of House Baruch

‘By Mountain, River, and Coal’

THE HISTORY AND TRADITIONS OF THE GREYGUARD

Published 471 E.S. | 1918 A.H.

Or, A RECORD OF THE HISTORY AND TRADITIONS OF THE GREYGUARD

BY

ARTHUR FRASER GANT

and

HOLLY OF LALLYBROCH

MAINTAINED BY:
ARCHIVIST OF HOUSE BARUCH

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Under the rule of House Baruch, the County of Ayr hosted a loyal and storied levy by the name of the Order of the Unbowed which lasted throughout its initial period as a vassal and brief independence. It would later be reformed after the Greyspine rebellion to its current iteration, the Greyguard, but became defunct for nearly a century as the House attained ducal status. The reforms later introduced by King Josef I allowed Haeseni peers to hire and retain personal guards for their own protection, and so the guard of House Baruch was reformed with greater structure. Where the old Order had drawn from the peasant levies of the Baruch demesne for its manpower, the Greyguard of today hosts skilled warriors primarily of Ayrikiv stock.

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HISTORY

FOUNDING OF THE GREYGUARD

The Order of the Unbowed, predecessor to the Greyguard, was founded during the reign of Otto Marius Baruch, Count of Ayr in 1611 at the start of the Greyspine Rebellion. Count Otto marched the Unbowed down from their mountain keep, Jorenstadt, to reclaim their seat of Saint’s Rest from the imposter Kovachev who had sworn fealty to the Kingdom of Courland. The levy fought well, however they failed to fully reclaim the land. This led Count Otto to order the retreat back to his keep, knowing that he would need as many men as possible to join with his Ruthern allies to eventually launch an attack on the Courlandic invaders. Count Otto eventually led his host to join the Rutherns, where they routed the Courlandic forces during the second battle of the Rothswood to restore the Kingdom of Haense.

Ser Aldrik founded the modern Greyguard in Atlas after the construction of his keep, Greyguard Hold. Aldrik and the Greyguard soldiers had multiple small disputes with the monarchy over the legality of having a levy, despite Aldrik reassuring that they would only be used in favour of the King. However, Otto II insisted the Greyguard be reduced to only a few bodyguards instead of an active levy. These bodyguards participated in multiple wars, protecting their Count from Renatian and Nordling alike.

During the reign of Marius Karl Baruch, Count of Ayr, the Greyguard served as it had in his father’s reign. When Greyguard Hold was infiltrated and taken by Arberrang, Count Marius called his levymen and marched upon his old home to reclaim his family’s seat. Count Marius and his men were victorious, and the Greyguard once again were able to defend the lands of the Baruch family and assist in the protection of northern Haense. Count Marius led the Greyguard in the crossing to Arcas, before his abdication in favour of his grandson, Jan Eirik Baruch.

Jan Eirik Baruch, Count of Ayr, saw through the Royal Levy Ban of 1709 and integrated the Greyguard into the Royal Army in return for the position of Commandant. He served in this position, with the Greyguard under his control, until his expulsion from the Kingdom for conspiring against the King and other allies. The Greyguard then returned home to Ayr, not wanting to serve anyone but a member of House Baruch, swearing now to Sigmar Joren Baruch, Count of Ayr.

The Greyguard then saw a period of inactivity spanning nearly the entirety of the next century. It was only in the year 1833 that the great-grandson of Sigmar, Duke Ruslan I of Valwyck, reinstated the order upon the declaration of war on the elves of Haelun'or. They currently serve as a small, well-trained guardforce, tasked solely with the defence of the Ducal family.

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TRIALS

ORDEALS OF THE BEAR

To be able to take on the oath and fully claim the merits of the Greyguard, one must submit to a series of tasks to demonstrate the fitness of one’s strength and will. These tasks, the Ordeals of the Bear, are enshrined as the benchmark by which all those who enter the Greyguard solidifying their commitment and service for the safety of Valwyck and their faithfulness to the House of Baruch. One must live by and for the land, depending upon its bounties and giving back to its beauty through service, sacrifice, and loyalty.

The Ordeals of the Bear reflect the traditional values of all Ayrikiv. Defined by their persistence, will, and straightforwardness, the trials one takes emphasise the practicality of duty, being harmonious with the elements, and forging kinship. They also assess one’s capacity to be resourceful and to value one’s duty in the face of adversity. These values are modelled off of the centuries old virtues that the heads of Baruch have fulfilled as stalwart defenders of Haeseni traditions and their obligations to protect Northern values.

The structure of the Ordeal requires that all prospects of the Greyguard fulfill a number of requisite tasks that are typically incumbent upon them as they fulfil their duties. They orient one to live a life of pragmatism, utility, and cultivate determination as individuals and as collectives. One must first venture to the coast and to construct a suitable boat that can adequately traverse across the waters surrounding the land. This trial underscores the ability for each recruit to develop their relationship to the waters that sustain the life and commerce of the Ayrikiv. Prospects of the Greyguard must learn to fish and sustain themselves from the bounties of the catch that have sustained the ancestors for generations, to live from their toils and to embrace the lifeworlds of the open waters.

The Ordeals of the Bear are administered by a senior member of the Greyguard, whose experience and mentorship shall be vital to the successful completion of the tasks. Upon satisfying these ordeals, a recruit is submitted for review to determine quality of mind and purity of heart before taking the final oaths.

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OATHING

OATH OF THE GREYGUARD

Upon being assessed satisfactorily fulfilling the Ordeals of the Bear, recruits are called forth to affirm their intentions to be sworn in before their liege lord and to the Ayrikiv people. The formula for the full initiation must be recited in the presence of the lawful peer of Valwyck or their designated proxy as witness:

“By the will of the Ayrikiv, I swear humbly to serve my brethren.

I commit myself to my kin, to honour the land and to steward its beauty.

Through virtue, I gain discipline to serve.

Through humility, I gain clarity to pledge myself to the cause.

Through persistence, we might accomplish all that is set for us.

With courage, I shall defend the Ayrikiv.

For Valwyck, I raise arms.

To do battle and to promote peace, my life is dedicated to the true path.

For the waters have cleansed me, the bounties of the seas sustain me.

I am named a protector of Valwyck and cooperate to her welfare.

If I end here, may my life return to its peaceful sways.

In this, I commit myself in perpetuity.”

TENETS OF THE GREYGUARD

I. By the Ayrikiv people, my oath is unbroken. Hold fast your values and safeguard your culture in service of the coasts and the land by which your body depends.

II. By the Ayrikiv people, resilience through hardship shall temper your resolve and bring forth triumphant grace.

III. By the Ayrikiv people, independence guides your spirit. Hard work and diligence shall usher in true prosperity.

IV. By the Ayrikiv people, honour your kin and do good works by them. Their memory and their name shall live on through you.

V. By the Ayrikiv people, you shall shepherd the abundance of the land, steward the bounties of the seas, and protect the beauty of God’s natural world. It shall endure as an inheritance for generations.

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March 12, 2023

Originally posted here

Completed and formatted by @kaylacita

“Ri Beinn, Abhainn, Agus Gual”

Motto of House Baruch

‘By Mountain, River, and Coal’

THE DIALECT AND LANGUAGE OF THE AYRIKIV

Published 409 E.S. | 1856 A.H.

Or, A LEXICON OF THE DIALECT AND LANGUAGE OF THE AYRIKIV

BY

GEORGINA SOFIYA BARUCH

and

SER VIKTOR JOSEF BARUCH

AMENDED BY:

ROSLIN ANNASTAS BARUCH

MAINTAINED BY:
ARCHIVIST OF HOUSE BARUCH

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While most Haeseni are accustomed to Waldenian and Naumariav, the dialect of the Ayrikiv people, or Ayrikiv in the Naumariav tongue, that hails from the lands of House Baruch is strange to most, and incomprehensible to the rest. It is unique among the cultural tongues of the Dual-Kingdom, which traces itself back to the largely indecipherable ancient Ayrikiv language. This collection of common Ayrikiv words and manners of speaking has been penned with the intent of allowing easy translations, as well as providing a further semblance of uniformity for the tongue itself.

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THE AYRIKIV ACCENT

INFORMATION

For much of the history of the Ayrikiv peoples they shared in the common tongue of Hanseti-Ruska, Naumariav. The ancestors of most present-day Ayrikiv would have spoken in a manner indistinguishable from their Haeseni counterparts. Under the influence of Duke Matyas “the Scyfling” Baruch of Valwyck, the distinct dialect and culture was heavily promoted among the peoples of Ayr, integrating much of the language and mannerisms of the namesake of Matyas.

The tongue of the Ayrikiv has only reached its maturity in the most recent generations. While not entirely unified, many Ayrikiv share words and patterns of speech unique to their culture. Despite minor differences from man to man, all generally share the same thick, rhotic accent.

SENTENCE STRUCTURE

The - Th’

That - Tha’

To, Too, Two - Tae

Of - O’

Or - Er

For - Fer

Be - Bae

Do - Dae

Did Not - Didnae

Do Not - Dinnae

Can Not - Cannae

Suppose - S’pose

PRONOUNS

I - Ah

My - Me

You - Ye

Your, You Are - Yer

Many Ayrikiv tend to drop T’s and H’s in words as they speak, an extreme case of this can be seen in the following example;

Wha’ a fine coa’ o’ mail ye ‘ave there. → (What a fine coat of mail you have there.)

Similar to many other dialects, Ayrikiv often do not pronounce the ‘g’ in words which end in ‘ing’, for example;

Th’ whales won’ be catchin’ ‘emselves. → (The whales will not be catching themselves.)

Note; This is not always the case, however, and would only be so in the instance of particularly thick accents. Annunciation is held in high regards to phrases when in situations of importance, such as when one is the host to a feast, or speaking to higher nobility.

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COMMON WORDS

INFORMATION

While most Ayrikiv do not commonly use the pure form of their language, a handful of words have managed to seep into everyday usage. These most commonly used words hold great significance for the Ayrikiv, serving as a reminder of their cultural heritage and providing a sense of unity among one another.

COLOURS

Red - Dearg

Orange - Orains

Yellow - Buidhe

Green - Uaine

Blue - Gorm

Pink - Pinc

Purple - Purpaidh

Brown - Donn

White - Geal

Grey - Liath

Black - Dubh

PHRASES

Yes - Aye

No - Nay

Hello - Halo

Farewell - Slan

Good - Braw

Beautiful, fair - Bonnie

Know, reckon - Ken

Hit - Skelp

PEOPLE

Lord - Laird

Lady - Laidy

Boy - Laddie

Girl - Lassie

Child - Bairn, wean

Great (Prefix) - Sinn

Grandfather - F. Seandadaidh, IF. Daideo

Grandmother - F. Seanmamaidh, IF. Mamo

Father - F. Dadaidh, IF. Daid

Mother - F. Mamaidh, IF. Mam

Brother - Brathair

Sister - Sisthair

Uncle - Uncail

Aunt - Aint

Cousin - Cosin

Note; The prefix “sinn” is used only in reference to familial greatness. In practice, it would appear similar to; sinn-seanmamaidh, or sinn-seanuncail.

CURSES

Note; While it would not be unusual for common curses to be used, the Ayrikiv people pride themselves on their quick wit and ability to formulate spontaneous, though oftentimes nonsensical, insults.

OBJECTS & THINGS

Great (Prefix) - Masc. Mòr, Fem. Mhòr

Bagpipes - Pìob Mhòr

Bear - Mathan

Blubber - Blobhsair

Coal - Gual

Fish - Iasg

Greyguard - Liath-Geàrd

House - Taigh

Kingdom - Rioghnachd

King - Righ

Lake - Loch

Minas - Minae

Mountain - Beinn

River - Abhainn

Sea - Mar

Sword (Great) - Claidheamh (Mòr)

Tartan - Breacan

Tobacco - Baccy

Town - Toun

War - Cogadh

Whale - Muc-mhara

Ship - Soitheach

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COMMON NAMES

A

Adrean (c: Adrian) - m - from Flexio ‘Hadriasis’ meaning ‘from Adricho, a man of Adricho’;

Adreana (c: Adriana) - f - feminine form of Adrean;

Aindrou, Dand, *Andrew (c: Andrew, Andreas) - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Anndrais’ meaning ‘to be strong, courageous’;

Aingeal (c: Angelica) - f - from Flexio ‘Aengul’;

Alana - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Aghlannah’ meaning ‘beautiful’;

Alasdair, Alistair (c: Alexander) - m - from Flexio ‘Alexia’ meaning ‘diligence, prudence, to remain strong in a goal’;

Alpin - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Ailpein’ meaning ‘white’;

Angus - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Aonghus’ meaning ‘one strength’;

Annabel - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Amabel’ meaning ‘loving’;

Annastas (c: Anastasia) - f - from Akritian ‘Anastasis’ meaning ‘resurrection, reborn’;

Aodh (c: Aldrick) - m - from Early Hansetian ‘Allrik’ meaning ‘honoured son of king, to be honoured or cherished’;

Artur, *Arthur (c: Arthur) - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Artúr’ meaning ‘son of the bear, bear prince’;

B

Beathag (c: Sophia) - f - from Akritian ‘Sophios’ meaning ‘creation, the moment of creation or genesis’;

Bebinn, Vevina (c: Vivian) - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Béibhinn’ meaning ‘woman, lady’;

Beigis (c: Peggy) - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Margrait’ meaning ‘virtue of the bear, bravery of the bear’;

Beitris (c: Beatrice) - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Beathag’ meaning ‘voyager’;

Bernaird (c: Bernard) - m - from Early Jrentic ‘Berenarid’ meaning ‘brave as a bear’;

Bhioctoria, Victoiria (c: Victoria) - f - feminine form of Buadach;

Blaithair - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Bhaltair’ meaning ‘strong fighter’;

Blayr - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Blaire’ meaning ‘battlefield’;

Brenainn (c: Brendan) - m - from Early Jrentic ‘Beranimaer’ meaning ‘red-haired or fiery son’;

Buadach, Victair, *Victor (c: Victor) - m - from Old Raev ‘Vykz’ meaning ‘victory’;

C

Caitlin, Catriona (c: Catherine) - f - from Hunnik Raev ‘Ekat’ meaning ‘grace, purity’;

Cairstine - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Cairstayne’ meaning ‘follower of Godan’;

Caustantin (c: Constantine) - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Còiseam’ meaning ‘steadfast, constant’;

Cleimintin (c: Clementine) - f - feminine form of Climeis;

Climeis (c: Clement) - m - from Early Jrentic ‘Celemanse’ meaning ‘preacher, diviner, doer of the divine’;

Colin - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Cailean’ meaning ‘whelp, young dog’;

Conaill, Conaire, *Conor (c: Conor) - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Conchobhar’ meaning ‘mighty as the hound’;

D

Dablinn, *Davinia - f - feminine form of Daibadh;

Daibadh, *David (c: David) - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Dauid’ meaning ‘loved by God, beloved’;

Daire - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Darragh’ meaning ‘oak tree’;

Dairine - f - feminine form of Daire;

Deaderic (c: Dietrich) - m - from Gauntr ‘Drrik’ meaning ‘knowledge son or king, intelligent son’;

Dougal - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Dubhgall’ meaning ‘dark stranger’;

Duncan - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Donnchadh’ meaning ‘dark-haired man’;

E

Eideard (c: Edward) - m - from Early Jrentic ‘Estewarid’ meaning ‘blonde-haired, golden-haired’;

Eileen - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Eilidh’ meaning ‘lively’;

Eilionoir, *Eleanor (c: Eleanor) - f - from Akritian ‘Eleanosis’ meaning ‘enlightened one, smart daughter’;

Eraic, Eiric, *Eirik, *Eric (c:Eric) - m - from Gauntr ‘Rik’ meaning ‘son or king, to be a child’;

Eraica, Eirica, *Eirika, *Erica (c: Erica) - f - feminine form of Eiric;

Elspaith, Elhzpehth (c: Elisabeth) - f - from Waldorvian Raev ‘Lizativetaya’ meaning ‘apple-picker, farmer of apple orchids’;

Eufemie - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Eufeg’ meaning ‘aura’;

F

Ferdoradh (c: Frederick) - m - from Gauntr ‘Fridrr’ meaning ‘lord, chief’ and Gauntr ‘Erikrr’ meaning ‘brave, stalwart’;

Ferdorag (c: Fredericka) - f - feminine form of Ferdoradh;

Fergus - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Fearghas’ meaning ‘man of vigor’;

Filib (c: Philip) - m - from Flexio ‘Philia’ meaning ‘love, compassion, care’, also derived from one of Horen’s five companions Philip;

Fingal, Fionn - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Fionnghall’ meaning ‘fair’;

Finora, Venora (c: Guinevere) - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Fionnabhair’ meaning ‘white fairy, fair lady’;

Floireans (c: Florence) - f - from Flexio ‘Flos’ meaning ‘flower, innocence’;

G

Garen (c: Aaron) - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Girhain’ meaning ‘mountain of strength’;

Gawn (c: Gavin) - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Gawain’ meaning ‘sent by God’;

Geleis (c: Julia) - f - from Flexio ‘Ulia’ meaning ‘motherly love, motherly compassion’;

Giles (c: Julius) - m - masculine form of Juliya;

Glen - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Gleann’ meaning ‘shore, riverbank’;

Glenna - f - feminine form of Glen;

Greig (c: Gregory) - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Griogair’ meaning ‘watchful, vigilant’;

Greir (c: Gregoria) - f - feminine form of Greig;

Grisell - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Gelgeis’ meaning ‘results, conclusion’;

H

Hamish, *James (c: James) - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Seumas’ meaning ‘stoic’;

Hanraoi (c: Henrietta) - f - feminine form of Hendreig;

Hendreig, *Henry (c: Henry) - m - from Gauntr ‘Hrinrik’ meaning ‘cherished son, beloved king, to be loved’;

Horas (c: Horace) - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Horeis’ meaning ‘time, season’;

Hughoc (c: Hughes) - m - from Auvergenian ‘Hugueh’ meaning ‘star, shining stone, glimmering’;

I

Idonea, Idony (c: Idonia) - f - from Kalendic ‘Iðunn’ meaning ‘ever young, renewal;

Innes - f - feminine form of Angus;

Iomhair (c: Ivar) - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Ímair’ meaning ‘bow wielder’;

Iosac (c: Isaac) - m - from Old Carnatian ‘Isak’ meaning ‘warrior of the horse, equestrian, lover of the horse and sword’;

Iosend (c: Isaaca) - f - feminine form of Iosac;

Isla - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Aileach’ meaning ‘island’;

Isobel, Iseabail, *Isabel (c: Isabella) - f - from Auvergenian ‘Sabele’ meaning ‘lushious bounties, bountiful fruit’;

L

Labhrain, Lorna (c: Laura) - f - from Old Raev ‘Loryzna’ meaning ‘sleeper of wolves, denizen of wolves’;

Lachlan - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Lochlann’ meaning ‘land of the lochs’;

Lorchan, Lorcan (c: Laurence) - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Lorcán’ meaning ‘fierce one’;

Lucais (c: Lucas, Luke) - m - from Flexio ‘Locas’ meaning ‘flower, blooming flower, beautiful flower’;

Lughaid, Luthais (c: Louis) - m - from Gauntr ‘Lud’ and ‘Vik’ meaning ‘luminous, bright’ and ‘people, race, blood’;

Lughaoise, Luthaoise (c: Louise, Louisa) - f - feminine form of ‘Lugaid’;

M

Maeve - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Méabh’ meaning ‘intoxicating, she who rules’;

Maghnus, *Magnus (c: Magnus) - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Madhnuis’ meaning ‘to inspire’;

Maiteas (c: Matthias, Matthew) - m - from Auvergenian ‘Matteweis’ meaning ‘wise one, wise man’;

Malcolm - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Maelcolium’ meaning ‘pious’;

Mansie (c: Magna) - f - feminine form of Maghnus;

Mariorie, Mairi, Moira (c: Mary) - f - from Early Hansetian ‘Maar-Is’ meaning ‘To do good deeds, to be good’;

Margrait, Marsaili (c: Margaret, Marcella) - f - from Gauntr ‘Maarigoet’ meaning ‘virtue of the bear, bravery of the bear’;

Maudlin (c: Madeline) - f - from Auvergenian ‘Madeleine’ meaning ‘high tower’;

Micheil (c: Michael) - m - from Flexio ‘Malchaldal’ meaning ‘to protect, to guard, to maintain thoroughly’;

Micheilena (c: Michelle) - f - feminine form of Micheil;

N

Nandag (c: Anne) - f - from Gauntr ‘Ana’ meaning ‘beautiful, cute, one of beauty’;

Naoise - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Naisi’ meaning ‘night’;

Neaclas (c: Nicholas) - m - from Hunnik Raev ‘Nykoly’ meaning ‘Nikul’s son, one of the sun’;

Niamh - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Niaṁ’ meaning ‘bright, radiant’;

Nuala (c: Penelope) - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Fionnghuala’ meaning ‘lamb, fair shoulder’;

O

Oighain, Owain, Ewen, *Owen (c: Owen) - m - from Early Jrentic ‘Oawain’ meaning ‘leader of men, general, commander’;

Oighrig - f - from in Early Ayrikiv ‘Aithbhreac’ meaning ‘small hill’;

Oileana - f - from Flexio ‘Elius’ meaning ‘one of the sun’;

Oilibhear, Olefer (c: Oliver) - m - from Flexio ‘Oliva’ meaning ‘descendant, olive tree’;

Oilibhia, Olifia (c: Olivia) - f - feminine form of Oilibhear;

P

Paitrik, *Patrick (c: Patrick) - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Paidhrach’ meaning ‘of noble origin’;

Peadar, *Peter (c: Peter) - m - from Flexio ‘Petia’ meaning ‘purity, trustworthiness’;

Peadenna, *Patricia (c: Petrissa) - f - feminine form of Peadar;

Pol (c: Paul) - m - from Auvergenian ‘Pal’ meaning ‘friend, companion’;

Proinsias, Preanndaigh (c: Francis) - m - from Gauntr ‘Branz’ meaning ‘bronze’;

Proinseas (c: Francesca) - f - feminine form of Proinsias;

R

Raibeart, *Robert (c: Robert) - m - from Gauntr ‘Rogr’ and ‘Beart’ meaning ‘honored elder, respected priest’;

Raibearag, *Roberta (c: Roberta) - f - feminine form of Raibeart;

Rainauld, *Ronald (c: Ronald) - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Raghnall’ meaning ‘to counsel, rule’;

Rainalda, *Renalda (c: Renalda) - f - feminine form of Rainauld;

Riagain, *Ruslan (c: Rusland) - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Rieghain’ meaning ‘lion-like’;

Richeal, Richella (c: Rachel) - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Ráichéal’ meaning ‘ewe, one with purity’;

Riona (c: Rhiannon) - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Ríoghnach’ meaning ‘of greatness’;

Roslin, Roisin (c: Rosalind) - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Róis’ meaning ‘rose, red-haired’;

Ruairi, Raudraich, *Rodrick (c: Roderick) - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Ruaidhrí’ meaning ‘red king’;

S

Saoirse (c: Georgina) - f - feminine form of Seoirse;

Saosaimh (c: Josephina) - f - feminine form of Seosamh;

Saraidh (c: Sarah) - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Sannaidh’ meaning ‘noblewoman’;

Seaghain, Ian, *Jan, *John (c: John) - m - from Flexio ‘Iohania’ meaning ‘savior, redeemer, messiah’;

Seoirse (c: George) - m - from Early Hansetian ‘Gero’ and ‘Rege’ meaning ‘man of the earth, man of the soil’;

Seonaid, *Janet, *Joan (c: Joan) - f - feminine form of Seaghain;

Seosamh (c: Joseph) - m - from Flexio ‘Iosepha’ meaning ‘acolyte, believer’’;

Siagán (c: Siguine) - m - from Early Jrentic ‘Sigumarid’ meaning ‘divine son, holy son’;

Sileas (c: Cecilia) - f - from Flexio ‘Secilia’ meaning ‘serene, tranquil’;

Simidh (c: Simon) - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Simidh’ meaning ‘God has heard’;

Sionan - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Sionainn’ meaning ‘wisdom’;

Siubhain (c: Siobhan) - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Siubhaininn’ meaning ‘God is gracious’;

Sorcha (c: Clara, Claire) - f - from Flexio ‘Calaraia’ meaning ‘clarity’;

Steaphanaidh (c: Stephanie) - f - feminine form of Steen;

Steen (c: Stephan) - m - from Flexio ‘Stephia’ meaning ‘meek, humility’;

Swannoc - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Suannoch’ meaning ‘weary’;

T

Tamas (c: Thomas) - m - from Flexio ‘Tomasia’ meaning ‘wisdom, knowledge, intelligence’;

Taillte - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Tailtiu’ meaning ‘well formed, beautiful’;

Teaboid (c: Tobias) - m - from Hunnik Raev ‘Tyuv’ meaning ‘golden, rich, wealthy’;

Tearlach (c: Charles) - m - from Early Hansetian ‘Karol’ meaning ‘follower of God’;

Tearlag (c: Caroline) - f - feminine form of Karl;

Toireasa (c: Theresa) - f - from Flexio ‘Teresia’ meaning ‘chaste’;

Turlough - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Toirdhealbhach’ meaning ‘instigator’;

U

Ualdemagh, *Valdemar (c: Valdemar) - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Ualdanaidh’ meaning ‘to rule, fame’;

Uilleam, *William (c: William) - m - from Auvergenian ‘Wille’ meaning ‘learner, student’;

Uilfrid - m - from Gauntr ‘Wilfrich’ meaning ‘willful, powerful’;

Ulchel - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Ulghell’ meaning ‘freedom, free’;

Unfraidh (c: Humphrey) - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Amhlaoibh’ meaning ‘bear cub’;

Uodal, *Otto (c: Otto) - m - from Gauntr ‘Ot’ meaning ‘warrior, fighter’;

Y

Ysenda - f - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Iosend’ meaning ‘fair lady, beautiful’;

Yvain - m - from Early Ayrikiv ‘Oighain’ meaning ‘youth, well-born’;

Yvaine - f - feminine form of Yvain;

Note; The listed names are not a finalised list, but are considered to be common for an Ayrikiv man or woman to have. More variants of the names exist, including ones that are bastardised due to the intermingling of Ayrikiv and Haeseni cultures. Names noted with an asterisk before them are considered to be both a normalised spelling of a Haeseni or Common name for the Ayrikivs.

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March 9, 2023

Inspired by @yopplwasupxxx

Written and Formatted by @Drew2_dude and @Zanthuz

“Ri Beinn, Abhainn, Agus Gual”

Motto of House Baruch

‘By Mountain, River, and Coal’

A STUDY ON THE PROCESSION OF THE BARUCH ASCENSION

Published 468 E.S. | 1915 A.H.

Or, AN EXAMINATION ON THE PROCESSION OF THE BARUCH ASCENSION

BY

OTTO MALCOLM GANT

and

WALLACE OF LALLYBROCH

MAINTAINED BY:

ARCHIVIST OF HOUSE BARUCH

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In the days of yore, when King Petyr I bestowed upon Eirik ‘The Whaler’ the first baronial title to the House of Baruch, a ritual upon the ascension of each titleholder began to take its form. This custom would continue to evolve and develop throughout the centuries as Baruch went from Baronial and Comital house to Ducal status. The whalebone coronet of Eirik I, being a symbol of the houses seafaring ways, was traded for a recovered ancestral circlet of Saint Otto of Vanderfell, the founding father of the family. The standard Waldenian lute and bard was exchanged for the Ayrikiv bagpipes and fiddle, and similarly so did were the vibrant Waldenian gowns exchanged for tartans, fur, and wool clothing. And as the culture of the people of Ayr has developed, so too has the process of ascension.

This procession shall be meticulously recorded and chronicled so that the traditions of the Ayrikiv people and the House of Baruch may be preserved in the annals of history, for the future use by the descendants of Valwyck and its subjects.

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REGALIA

WHALEBONE CORONET OF EIRIK I

Patriarchs adorned by this regalia: Eirik I, Otto I, Aldrik I, Jan I, Sigmar I

A circlet of interlocking whale bones, adorned with various crystals and gems representing the colours of House Baruch. Crafted by skillful smiths during the reign of Count Eirik I, the coronet serves as a symbol of Baruch prowess and prestige.

SAINT OTTO’S CORONET

Patriarchs adorned by this regalia: Petyr II, Matyas I, Ruslan I, Eirik III, Isabel I

Legend has it that this old, silver coronet was once worn by Saint Otto of Haense as Grand Duke of Vanderfell. It is heavily engraved, and the words Gottmituns' is engraved across its front, bordered by a set of flawless gemstones.

WHALEBONE SCEPTER OF EIRIK I

An ivory sceptre made of whalebone, crafted for Eirik I. The polished ivory rod was gilded at the bottom with a gold trimmed hilt. The sceptre was topped with a bear head carved out of whalebone. The sceptre was meticulously marked with patterns symbolising the waves of the sea, and mountains of Greyspine.

LIVERY CHAIN OF SIGMAR I

A chain-linked necklace made of gold that sits on the shoulders, worn by Sigmar I. The necklace features a bold centrepiece; a large, red ruby situated at the centre of the necklace. It also features meticulously designed medallions situated in intervals on the necklace, each medallion is engraved with the seal of House Baruch or of House Barbanov.

TARTAN SASH OF VENERABLE EIRIK III

A red tartan sash worn by the Venerable Eirik III. The red tartan consists of intersecting stripes with different shades of red. The tartan sash is held by a silver circular brooch with a bear standing in the middle.

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PROCESSION

BAPTISM OF THE DUKE/DUCHESS

The Baptism of the Duke or Duchess is performed in a private ceremony before the public ascension, surrounded only by their family and their Liege-Lord the Crown of Haense, if present.

At the beginning of the Baptism of the Duke/Duchess, this prayer is spoken by the Priest:

“Almighty God, in whose name we consecrate these sacred rites, grant that divine favour enshrines your servant into their noble station, the Duke/Duchess of Valwyck. By Saint Otto’s intercession, we call forth the holy decrees of faith to strengthen and sanctify, making pure the soul of the Duke/Duchess of Valwyck. May these waters cleanse the body and purify the heart, making him/her worthy of this temporal patrimony.”

REGALIA OF THE DUKE/DUCHESS

The Regalia is placed on the Duke/Duchess by the former Regent/ patriarch;

First the sash of Venerable Eirik III is placed on the left shoulder of the Duke/Duchess, then fastened to their robe with the silver bear brooch over their heart. The following is then spoken by the former patriarch:

“Don the sash of the Venerable Eirik III, that you may inherit the wisdom of your forebears.”

Next, the livery chain of Sigmar I is placed on the Duke/Duchess’ neck, with the former patriarch saying:

“Don the livery chain of Sigmar I, that you may inherit the conviction of your forefathers.”

Next is the whalebone sceptre of Eirik I, held by the new Duke/Duchess in their right hand. The former patriarch then says the following:

“Don the whalebone sceptre of Eirik I, that you may nourish the bounties of the Ayrikiv.”

Finally, Saint Otto’s coronet is placed atop the Duke/Duchess’ head, with the former patriarch speaking the following:

“Don the Coronet of Vanderfell, that you may never forget the traditions of your people.”

“Ordained with these relics, we call forth the great heritage inaugurated and sustained by the faithful lineage of the House of Baruch. With the wisdom and devotion impressed unto us through the name of Saint Otto of Vanderfell, great patron of the most worthy and chosen Haeseni people, we invoke the pronouncement of these ceremonial rites. May these relics and the intentions that bear their significance rightfully install the head of this peerage.”

ANOINTING OF THE DUKE/DUCHESS

The anointing of the Duke/Duchess is performed by the priest with the preserved oil of the last whale slain by Aldrik I:

The palms of the Duke/Duchess are traced in the Lorraine cross with the oil:

“Bless these hands, that the toils of the Duke/Duchess of Valwyck be a service worthy and holy.”

The forehead of the Duke/Duchess is traced in the Lorraine cross with the oil:

“Bless the mind, that the insight of the saints and venerated draw near as the Duke/Duchess carries out his/her duty with earnestness and prudence. May the wisdom of the forebears throughout the centuries guide the Duke/Duchess in his/her station as head of the family.”

FINAL PRAYER

This prayer is said by the Duke/Duchess at the end of the ceremony at the feet of Saint Otto of Vanderfell’s tomb:

“May the blessings of Almighty God, through the intercession of Saint Otto, pour forth. Grant that I may be worthy to receive this sanctification with a purity of mind, body, and spirit. Consecrate my will, so that my deeds and words be in the service of the Holy Will and in the grand heritage by which my life is now dedicated. I call forth the names of those before me and advance the peace and grace that is befitting to the station of the Duke/Duchess of Valwyck. May God ever sustain me. Amen.”

RECESSIONAL

As the Duke/Duchess exits the cathedral, a symphony of bagpipes and fiddles are played; the guests follow the Duke/Duchess out followed by the band members. This signals the end of the procession.

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March 7, 2023

Banner of the Bear & Lallybroch Lads Come Home written by @ThanksChris

Completed and formatted by @kaylacita

“Ri Beinn, Abhainn, Agus Gual”

Motto of House Baruch

‘By Mountain, River, and Coal’

BALLADS FROM THE LANDS OF AYR

Published 467 E.S. | 1914 A.H.

Or, A TRANSCRIPTION OF THE BALLADS FROM THE LANDS OF AYR

BY

ROSLIN ANNASTAS BARUCH

WITH DEDICATION TO:

VALDEMAR EIRIK BARUCH, DUKE-ABDICANT OF VALWYCK

MAINTAINED BY:

ARCHIVIST OF HOUSE BARUCH

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The customs of the people of Ayr have been notably undocumented until recent years, taught only through tongue for numerous generations. It is of great interest to the House of Baruch that the Ayrikiv culture is preserved and chronicled, and such an endeavour first began under the reign of Venerable Eirik. Despite this, it was Valdemar Baruch, the Duke-Abdicant of Valwyck, who first transcribed two folk songs in their entirety, though he was unable to finish the task he had begun. In his stead, the Archivist and Duchess Roslin I has seen that the document is completed and published, providing an invaluable glimpse into the music and stories of Ayr as follows;

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BANNER OF THE BEAR

INFORMATION

In the time of the War of the Silver Isles, the men of the Greyguard sought to inspire the Ayrikiv and their allies with song as they marched into battle. It is said that the Banner of the Bear was composed as soldiers huddled around a campfire in the first nightfall of a raid, where a grizzled veteran began to sing the beginning of a tune that he had learned in his youth. Others began to add to the song, and it soon became a reminder of the courage of those who fight for their nation and loved ones. The chant is now taught to new recruits of the Greyguard and is repeated in the marches before battle.

LYRICS

Come fishin’ lads, come farmin’ lads where’er ye may roam

We heed the call o’ auld Baruch and rally fer our home

Tae arms fer King and faith, and fer our lives we’ll not despair

Brave Valwyck men are we beneath the Banner o’ the Bear

A fortnight have we marched and we shall march a fortnight more

Ahint, the rollin’ hills o’ home, afore us only war

Fer all the march I think upon my bonnie lassie fair

I fight fer her, my love, behind the Banner o’ the Bear

In wee-oors fires burn along the camp tae cinders low

At forenuin with my brothers intae battle shall I go

Should God will my Ayrikiv eyes must ne’er again see Ayr

I pray tae die with honour by the Banner o’ the Bear

A wind sings o’er the creeks tae meadows bloomin’ in the sun

In battles lang with Valwyck blood a righteous peace is won

Aneath a gloamin sky stands she, that bonnie lassie fair

Tae lay upon my pyre the grey Banner o’ the Bear

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LALLYBROCH LADS COME HOME

INFORMATION

Throughout the days that Duke Valdemar spent within the bustling docks of Lallybroch, he stumbled upon some of the local sailors who were drunk in the tavern. All present had been singing loudly, and dancing upon the tables. This interaction served as an inspiration to the Duke, prompting him to transcribe the song in its entirety. He noted that their attitudes were unfiltered and contained great passion.

LYRICS

One day as I wandered along the docks