Queen's Diary: Winter War

Dear Diary,

Winter War has come and gone and I have never had such a day pass as this one. In a blink of an eye, the day was over! This event has fond memories for Us, starting with the knighting of My husband in 2007 and the elevation of Dame TSivia Our last reign. Etain loves it for the fighting (of course, no surprise there) but for myself, I find it’s the event where I get to talk and be with the people the most. That’s my favorite part: just walking through the merchant area, browsing and chatting, up to the kitchen/bar area to share a drink with friends and then wandering back through the hallways to the fighting field, just to make sure the fighters are having fun and no one is getting hurt (like My husband whose favorite place is the shield wall).

This day was no different except We had visitors from Our neighboring Kingdom to the South as well. His Highness from the Midrealm and several of his subjects had come to visit Us and join in the fun. The Daughters of the North were doing their thing, as they do every year and from the reports during Court, it was another success. Wassail for the Daughters! The merchant area was bustling and of course, the bar was very busy. I love Ealdormere.

I spent a lot of time out in the hallways, watching the populace go about their business, chatting with people here and there but mostly taking it all in. I wanted to try and remember as many details as I could. You see, I haven’t been feeling very well as of late and I can’t shake this feeling that I won’t be around for much longer. I know that’s very morbid and probably not true, but there’s a little voice inside of me that tells me I’m not much longer for the throne. I know Our Heirs are loyal and would not wish any harm to either Myself or My husband, still the little nagging feeling won’t go away. Odd isn’t it?

Despite that little niggle, the day went very well and there was lots of joy to be had. Court was fun, I think, as We got to announce the winners of Our Grand Tournament and present the prizes – two gorgeous hand carved horns by Corwyn and Domhnail Galbraith. Wassail to the victorious Count Quillium and Lady Jocelyn! And also to all of those who won the other individual virtues. We had fun with all the tournaments and planning of the prizes and can only hope the populace did too.

Feast was magnificent in both food and entertainment. I think Our Midrealm guests were very impressed with Ealdormere’s hospitality and display of artistic and culinary skill. I know I was proud. Proud and stuffed, as usual *smile*.

Well, Diary, I’m feeling a little weak so I must finish this entry. I can only hope this passes and My husband and I can continue as the King and Queen of Ealdormere. I can think of no greater honor and privilege.