#Crimean castles

[wgm-beautiful-world]

Swallowtail Castle in Yalta, Crimea, UKRAINE

[transgenderer]

Timothy (c. 1844 – 3 April 2004) was a 5 kg (11 lb) Mediterranean spur-thighed tortoise, estimated to be about 160 years old at the time of her death. This made her the UK's oldest known resident. In spite of her name, Timothy was female; how to sex tortoises was not properly known in the 19th century. Timothy was named after a tortoise owned by Gilbert White.

Timothy was believed to have been born in the Mediterranean shores of the Ottoman Empire (modern-day Turkey) and was found aboard a Portuguese privateer in 1854, aged around 10, by Captain John Guy Courtenay-Everard of the Royal Navy. The tortoise served as a mascot on a series of navy vessels until 1892. She was the ship mascot of HMS Queen during the first bombardment of Sevastopol in the Crimean War (she was the last survivor of this war), then moved to HMS Princess Charlotte followed by HMS Nankin.

After her naval service, she retired to live out her life on dry land, taken in by the Earl of Devon at his home, Powderham Castle. From 1935, she lived in the castle's rose garden and was owned by Camilla Gabrielle Courtenay (1913–2010), the daughter of the 16th Earl of Devon. On her underside was etched "Where have I fallen? What have I done?", English translation of the Courtenay family motto ubi lapsus, quid feci.

[ltwilliammowett]

The grenade

The grenade (grenade is likely derived from the French word spelled exactly the same, meaning pomegranate, as the bomb is reminiscent of the many-seeded fruit in size and shape. Its first use in English dates from the 1590s.) as we know it today is not a modern invention - on the contrary, it has its origins in late antiquity and the early Middle Ages.

First grenades appeared in the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire not long after the reign of Leo III (717-741). Byzantine soldiers learnt that Greek fire (a mixture of sulphur and oil), a Byzantine invention from the previous century, could be thrown at the enemy not only with flamethrowers but also in stone and ceramic vessels.

Byzantine " Greek Fire" Grenade, c. 800-1000 AD

With the invention of gunpowder in Song China (960-1279), weapons known as ‘thunderbolts’ were created by soldiers packing gunpowder into ceramic or metal vessels with fuses. In a military book from the year 1044, the Wujing Zongyao (Collection of Military Classics), various gunpowder recipes are described in which, according to Joseph Needham, the prototype of the modern hand grenade can be found.

The grenades (pào) are made of cast iron, are the size of a bowl and have the shape of a ball. They contain half a pound of ‘divine fire’ (shén huǒ, gunpowder) inside. They are sent by an eruptor (mu pào) towards the enemy camp, and when they arrive there, a sound like a thunderclap is heard and flashes of light appear. If ten of these grenades are successfully fired at the enemy camp, the whole place goes up in flames.

Grenade-like devices were also known in ancient India. In a Persian historical account from the 12th century, the Mojmal al-Tawarikh, a terracotta elephant filled with explosives was hidden in a chariot with a fuse and exploded as the invading army approached.

These encrusted hand grenades were washed up from a 17th-century pirate shipwreck, Dollar Cove, in the coastal Gunwalloe district of Cornwall's Lizard Peninsula

The first cast-iron bombs and shells appeared in Europe in 1467, where they were initially used in the siege and defence of castles and fortresses. In the mid-17th century, infantrymen known as ‘grenadiers’ emerged in European armies, specialising in shock and close combat, usually using grenades and engaging in fierce hand-to-hand combat. But grenades have also been in use at sea since the 17th century. They were used to inflict as much personal damage as possible below deck after boarding a ship by throwing the grenades underneath.

After the middle of the 19th century, grenades were used extensively in the Crimean War and the American Civil War. Before they changed in design and function to be used in the trenches, especially in the First World War and later. They are still in use today.

Forbes, Robert James (1993). Studies in Ancient Technology

Thomas Enke: Grundlagen der Waffen- und Munitionstechnik

David Harding (Hrsg.): Waffen-Enzyklopädie

Bertram Kropak: Die geschichtliche Entwicklung der Handgranaten. In: DWJ Deutsches Waffen Journal. 1970

[theia-eos]

Elincia Was Not Too Hesitant to Act

I love the Tellius games. I think the writing for the Fire Emblem series as a whole peaked in the Tellius duology. There's a lot of nuance and tiny details and characterizations and depth and layers to every character. However, this does not mean that the games are perfect or beyond criticism.

And one such criticism I have is the message they try to sell in Radiant Dawn Part 2. I am not buying it. Spoilers below the cut.

In Part 2 of Radiant Dawn, we see how being ruler of Crimea is working out for our fair Queen Elincia. The last time we saw her in Path of Radiance, she was filled with self-doubt and worried about her ability to rule as she was never raised to rule and kept secret from the public, so her coronation as queen of Crimea is a big step for her.

Ike stayed on as a member of the royal court for a while, but dips out 6 months prior to the events of Part 2 because he's only causing her more grief than he is providing support now and he goes back to the simple mercenary life he loves.

Bastian has also left her side, citing sightings of the Black Knight returning in Daein and wanting to get a good understanding of Ashnard's "son," the new King Pelleas. He is lying to her, which I'll go into later. So it's only Elincia and the children she was raised alongside, her knights Geoffrey and Lucia, in the courts.

And the nobles do not respect Elincia at all. They disparage her at every chance they get, they blame her for Bastian wanting to go scope out Daein because she lets him go because he tells her, as her advisor, that it's the best idea. They chastise Lucia and Geoffrey for trying to defend her. Generally, you get the idea why Ike had to leave, he probably kept calling them out until he was blue in the face and then some.

Leanne comes looking for Ike, and he's disappeared into the wind, and then Elincia gets word from Nephenne, Brom and Heather from Ohma that one of the nobles, Duke Ludveck, is attempting a coup based on what the recruiter said. Elincia sends Lucia to Ludveck's territory, under the guise of showing Leanne around Crimea's best orchard region, to gather some more information. Lucia finds proof that Ludveck is trying to start a civil war/insurrection, and brings that back to Elincia, who then sends Geoffrey and the Crimean Royal Knights to arrest Ludveck. Elincia privately despairs to Leanne that she never wanted to be queen, she never wanted to deal with these problems, the burden of having to act against her own people is too much for her to bear.

There's some political espionage, Ludveck had a decoy force at his castle and attacks Elincia in her safehouse in Fort Alpea, and Elincia bests Ludveck, captures him, and then says he needs to be executed for treason. Ludveck says she should make him king instead, as she's too indecisive and feeble to be queen, she took too long to stop him plotting under her and that's weakened her authority in Crimea, and to force her hand, he says that he captured Lucia. His forces will execute Lucia unless she releases him and promises to pass her crown to him. Elincia refuses, Lucia is about to be killed but Ike and the Greil Mercenaries swoop in to save the day to save Lucia. Elincia resolves to be more decisive in the future.

So what is my problem with this plot? Well, let's review the chapter count of Part 2, it's very short.

Prologue - Elincia finds Begnion wyvern riders attempting to capture Leanne and intervenes immediately

Chapter 1 - Nephenne, Brom, and new recruit Heather fight their way out of Ohma to warn Elincia directly

Chapter 2 - Elincia sends Lucia to find solid evidence that Ludveck is a traitor

Chapter 3 - Lucia comes back with proof and Elincia sends Geoffrey to arrest Ludveck

Final Chapter - Elincia fights Ludveck

Please tell me where Elincia was indecisive, failed to take action, dwadled, or let the insurrection just grow. As soon as she finds out that it's happening she goes to get evidence, and then as soon as she has the evidence, she orders for Ludveck to be arrested. She immediately refuses to hand Ludveck the throne.

Ludveck: So I take it you understand everything now? And considering Lady Lucia’s life is on the line, you haven’t much choice. Now, let’s have you free me from this prison cell, and then we can discuss any further details… Elincia: I don’t think so. Radiant Dawn, Chapter 2-F, Elincia's Gambit Extended Script Translation from Serenes Forest

No hesitation. None. Even in the prologue where she fights and kills Begnion forces intruding on her home, trying to enslave Leanne, no hesitation.

Elincia: Begnion dracoknights… You will only be warned once. Leave this area immediately! I serve the queen of Crimea. Trespassers on Crimean territory will be dealt with. No exceptions. Zeffren: The queen, she says! The very queen that relied on us, the Begnion Empire, to free her nation. Imperial dracoknights are not frightened by soldiers so weak as Crimean pegasus knights. Listen up! Leave those two alone. It’s the Serenes maiden we want. Do not allow her to escape! Elincia: …Looks like we’ll not talk any sense into them. I suppose we have no choice. Sir Nealuchi! We’re here to help you! [Elincia attacks Zeffren] Zeffren: You… You Crimeans seriously believe you can withstand the might of Begnion?! Elincia: Crimea takes this sort of encroachment seriously. We will not overlook invaders in our domain. Release your weapons, and apologize for your discourtesy… Only then will we lower our own. Zeffren: You have quite a mouth on you… I won’t be addressed in that tone by anyone. It’s time to end this farce. Radiant Dawn, Chatper 2-P, On Drifting Clouds

Like yes, she offers diplomacy and a chance for them to stand down, but the story and Ludveck would have you believe that she's so crippled by hesitation that she wouldn't take action. Ludveck says "you were too hesitant and too concerned about harming the people" in stopping the civil war decisively to be a strong ruler.

What the hell else was she supposed to do? Elincia never caught wind of the rebellion until the beginning of Chapter 2, and then what was she supposed to do? Take the word of three villagers that there was some random unknown man they didn't even bring in with them recruiting for a rebellion for Duke Ludveck? Like I love Nephenne, Brom, and Heather as much as anyone else, but if she had just arrested and executed Ludveck based on that information she'd be a tyrant, the other nobles would never trust her and could possibly turn against her too. Getting proof was not a sign of hesitation. Sure, she says she'd like to attempt diplomacy first instead of immediately resorting to the sword, but as soon as she says that, a soldier runs in and says Ludveck is preparing to attack and Elincia realizes the time for negotiation is over and authorizes an immediate attack.

Lucia: As we suspected, Lord Ludveck is intent on rebellion. His followers are spread across the land, inciting insurrection. We have the documents to prove it. Geoffrey: Queen Elincia, I stand ready to defend the realm! I will lead the Royal Knights into Felirae, and we will seize the duke! Elincia: I am hesitant to resort to the sword without at least attempting diplomacy. At all costs, I must stop the people of Crimea from fighting one another. [A Crimean soldier rushes in] Crimean Soldier: Your Majesty! News from the countryside! Duke Ludveck has assembled an army and announced his intentions against you! The rebellion in Felirae is growing quickly! Elincia: I see… Lucia: He must have realized that his operations were no longer a secret. Your Majesty, we have no time to waste. We must stand against this, for the future of Crimea! Elincia: …I understand. Geoffrey, leader of the Royal Knights… I hereby authorize the use of military force against the rebel army! Geoffrey: Yes, Your Majesty. At once! Radiant Dawn, Chapter 2-2, Tides of Intrigue

Does a few seconds warrant Ludveck's criticisms? Is that a failure of Elincia, for taking a moment to say she wants to try diplomacy first?

Ludveck: Exactly, Your Majesty. If you truly had the power to quell the civil war… As long as I could affirm that, even if I were executed as a traitor, I would have no regrets. But, no, you were too hesitant and too concerned about harming the people… Now look what has happened. Radiant Dawn, Chapter 2-F, Elincia's Gambit Extended Script Translation from Serenes Forest

No, the real reason it took Elincia so long to act is because Bastian, Lucia and Geoffrey failed in their roles for her. All three of them had known that this was underway for a while.

Elincia: I see… So, that’s what’s going on. Thank you for bringing it to my attention. I’m very sorry your village was affected by this. You have my sincere apologies. Brom: Oh, no, Your Majesty. We don’t need no apology. We’re just happy we could help. Geoffrey: Lucia… Brom’s story confirms what we’ve suspected all along. Lucia: Yes, as we thought. Duke Ludveck of Felirae is firing up a rebellion. We should have seen it coming. To be honest, Queen Elincia, there have been a number of indications that something like this was under way. We’d hoped to uncover something more tangible than hushed rumors… I should have told you sooner. Radiant Dawn, Chapter 2-2, Tides of Intrigue

They've suspected it. They've known it. They're not surprised when the Ohma villagers tell Elincia about it, which is the first time she ever hears of this going on. Lucia apologizes for keeping it from Elincia because she was waiting for more proof. If Elincia had known about this sooner, she could have acted sooner. She would have acted sooner, by how she immediately sends Lucia to gather evidence.

But worst of all is Bastian. Bastian not only knows that this is happening, he is so certain his absence would set things into motion that he hires Ike and the Greil Mercenaries to step in and assist at the last minute if things go as he expected. Does he warn Elincia of what might happen while he was gone? No. Not only that, but Bastian isn't even going to Daein to see if the new king is going to be friendly to them. He's going to Daein to get Izuka to force Izuka to cure Renning, even though Bastian has known all along for years that the herons could have cured Renning. Why does he go this route?

[エリンシア] ユリシーズ、あなたは いままでどこにいたのです？▼ 突然、連絡を絶ってしまって… とても心配していたのですよ。▼ [ユリシーズ] デインにて…… 長く探っていた”鍵”にめぐり合いまして。▼ それ故、表より姿を消し、 策謀を巡らしておりました。 全てはクリミアの未来のために……▼ Radiant Dawn, Chapter 4-5, Unforgivable Sin Extended Script

In the Extended Scripts (JP Only script locked to Hard/Manic Modes), Bastian explains that he is looking for a "key" to Crimea's future in Daein while working in secret, which is later revealed to be that he wants Izuka, former advisor of King Pelleas of Daein, cure Renning. This despite the fact that he could go to the herons the entire time, and eventually winds up going to the herons in the end anyway. While never talking to Elincia about any of this. The only justification for this is that Bastian is in love with Renning and Bastian is worried that Renning will die if he is cured through heron galdr, as Rajaion did, and Bastian's emotions get in the way of his reason. The best and most charitable explanation I can give Bastian saying that Renning is the key to Crimea's future, to the point he's left Elincia alone since before Part 2 begins when she really could have used his help, is that he hopes that Renning's support will make Elincia's rule more stable, but it's never explained why Bastian believes Renning is the key to the future or why Bastian doesn't go straight to the herons, so your guess is as good as mine.

But that still doesn't excuse the fact that he hires mercenaries to rescue Elincia without ever warning Elincia himself. He either doesn't believe in her himself, which him saying that Renning is the future of Crimea kind of hints towards, or he is just leaving the the queen of the country in the dark because he thought his plan was best. Either way, unforgivable.

None of Elincia's most trusted people, the people she relies on for advice and counsel, gives her a single hint of a warning of the information they have, even if it is only rumors. Elincia should have been told.

Is Elincia young and naïve? Yes. Ludveck's criticisms that she's too trusting, that it is too easy to assassinate her, or poison her food or drink are 100% valid. I'll even agree with his point about her letting the fleeing rebels leave after she captures Ludveck in the final chapter, they absolutely should be arrested and punished for treason. Maybe not killed, but punished.

But that she is too hesitant to act to quell the rebellion? No. Bastian, Geoffrey, and Lucia keep vital information from Elincia. That the civil war gets so far is on them, not Elincia. Elincia always takes the correct next step for her based on what she knows and what they know after finding out about it. Now, for all Ludveck knows, Bastian and the others found out and told Elincia from the start and the inaction was on Elincia, because why wouldn't they keep the queen informed, so he can say what he believes to be true. But the fact that Elincia believes him, the fact that no one calls out the three of them for what they did wrong, is a failure of the writing.

Elincia: Yes, that’s true. It’s for the same reason that, once I knew of the rebels’ movements… I didn’t immediately make any decisive orders. Radiant Dawn, Chapter 2-F, Elincia's Gambit Extended Script Translation from Serenes Forest

If they wanted me to believe that message, they would have needed to add another chapter into Part 2, not that Radiant Dawn needs to be any longer, ideally making Chapter 3 deal with her attempting diplomacy and hesitating to act (maybe they set up a place to talk that gets attacked and she still doesn't authorize an attack on Ludveck), and then Chapter 4 being Geoffrey's Charge when Ludveck mobilizes his army.

However, as it stands, Elincia hesitating to take action is completely absurd.

[dark-frosted-heart]

Things from Harrison Gray’s Route Chapters 16-20

*This is not a full summary or translation*

Chapter 16

Ellis notices something and pauses for a sec, but they don't have the time to stop as the sound of footsteps approach the front door

After losing the cops, he and Kate set Jude down for a bit, Ellis trying to stop the bleeding with his jacket. But it won't stop

The two take Jude to the clinic Roger's dad runs. His dad's knows about the curse so it should be safe to take him there.

As they walk, Ellis apologizes to and thanks Kate, but she tells him to save those for after Jude's saved

Kate thinks back to the time when she asked Victor about how the cursed were destined to meet a tragic end and if fate could be changed.

There's always hope, but their world is harsh and cold, their fate even more so

At the clinic, Roger's dad welcomes them in. And shortly after, Roger arrives.

Roger's surprised that Jude hasn't bled to death. He sends Ellis and Kate back to the castle to report to Victor. Meanwhile, he and his dad will do what they can. Oh yeah, there's a shower they can use and a change of clothes

After receiving the report, Victor's certain that someone's trying to frame them. Someone's leaking info

Kate starts to worry since neither she nor the rest of Crown have seen Harrison

There's something Ellis wants to show Victor and Kate, but it'll make the latter upset. Kate wants to know though, even if it's something she'd be better off not knowing

Ellis shows an old photo he found at the mansion. In it is a family of three in a field of rye - Harrison as a child with his parents. Implying that Harrison was at the scene of the crime since his dad's dead and mom lives in the countryside

There's something Victor hasn't told any of them. Victor and Harrison's dad were acquainted. They met 14 years ago, back when he and William founded Crown.

Back when it was the two of them running through the streets at night conquering evil with evil. Some of the police caught wind of Crown's activities and went through great lengths to catch them

Harrison's dad, Marco, stumbled upon them at a crime scene one day. The body was already gone but Marco had suspected that they were Crown. Victor tells William to go take care of another case.

Marco didn't know what to do with Crown; he knew too little to arrest them. He asked why they get their hands dirty and Victor said it was in the name of the Queen, for the prosperity of the UK

Marco told him to go. He didn't see anything tonight. Same with Victor, he didn't see anyone that night

Since then, they'd often run into each other. And each time, they'd turn a blind eye toward each other

One night Victor received a letter that only told him a time and place. He had a bad feeling, but went anyway. But no one was there. The next day, Victor read that Marco was killed. Marco might've sent the letter to tell Victor something

After hearing Victor's story, she doesn't think that Crown was responsible for Harrison's dad's death. And she doesn't think Harrison believes so either. Plus he's had ample opportunity to exact revenge. So what is he fighting?

Victor will look into it

Kate sees what looks to be carriage lights out the window after she exits the common room. She rushes to Roger's basement lab and is greeted by Roger

Chapter 17

Jude's alive but but the bullet damaged nerves. Neither Roger nor his dad are experts in that field. The damage may be permanent and worst case scenario, he'd....

There's only one person in the UK who's worked with these kinds of injuries, one who served during the Crimean War. However, this doctor doesn't help cursed people because their whole family had been killed by one. The doctor turns away anyone associated with cursed people oto

Kate's sad and Roger ruffles her hair, telling her not to cry or else he'll get turned on

He won't let Jude die so easily since the man's an important test subject and a former patient

Anyway, Roger came back to the castle to get medicine. And looks at a wall, telling Kate not to worry about "that guy" over there. Liam appears out of nowhere

Roger's heading back to the clinic and tells Kate that Liam's worrying about something else. She'll take his place as doctor now for this

Kate can guess that he's worried about Harrison. Even he doesn't know what Harrison's doing. Why he's lying and what he's fighting. Yet Liam still calls himself Harrison's partner

Harrison's helped Liam a lot. When they first met, the former lent Liam his jacket when he was covered in blood. He always looked after Liam. Harrison's like that with Kate too

Kate finds it easy to give up when it's just her, but when it's someone she cares about, she doesn't want to give up. Even if Harrison pushes her away, she doesn't want to give up on him

Kate's going to go look for Harrison, to get the truth. Liam'll help

She looks around the castle but he's nowhere to be found. She then hears some music and follows it. In the ballroom, William's playing the piano. He was playing to lure Kate over

He casually asks Kate what she'd do if he executed Harrison for being a traitor. All signs lead to him after all. Kate asks what he thinks. William asked first though. He wants to know her opinion as Harrison's exclusive fairy tale writer

Rationally, she thinks it's too early to judge Harrison because there's no concrete evidence. Personally, she believes there's a good reason for why Harrison's lying because he always lies to protect someone else

But what if this "false kindness" was a cover for his desire for revenge, William asks. Kate has doubts for a second before the memories she had with Harrison assure her. She tells William that while she doesn't know if Harrison's out for revenge, but would he choose to hurt other people?

She asks William for time to find out the truth

William knows someone that'd rather live in the dark, corrupted rather than in the sun, pure. A man who was fighting "something" while covered in lies. He tells Kate to catch the lying fox and expose his lies

Chapter 18

Kate heads out and wonders if Harrison's aware of Jude's injury. She learns from the person in charge of the drawbridge between the castle and the palace that Harrison's used it to return to the castle

She takes a carriage to the slums of East End where the doctor Roger talked about has his clinic. She has a hunch that Harrison's here too. A familiar minty smell hits her nose and she follows it down to a back alley (me: maybe you are a dog).

She's finds Harrison staring at a building that says "clinic" on the door. She hears him begging for the doctor to help a friend

Even knowing that she might be revealing Crown's secrets, she goes over to help Harrison convince the doctor. Harrison tells her to go home but Kate refuses. Even if she might not be of any help, she can be his support

The two bow their heads in front of the door for who knows how long. Eventually, the door opens

A man with a white beard and coat looks at Harrison like he's about to shoot him. The doctor has a question for him - is he willing to give up his life to save a friend.

Harrison answers that he can't because human life's the most irreplaceable thing in the world and can't be exchanged for something of equal value. A simple nod would've been insulting. Also, he knows painfully well that someone that's passed can't easily come back.

Kate adds that outside of giving up her life, she'll do anything

The doctor asks where the dying person is.

Back at Roger's dad's clinic, Roger's surprised to see that Kate brought the doctor back. And Harrison too. The hell kind of magic did they use?

The doctor gets to work while shouting orders for disinfectant, a needle, and towels.

The three doctors are finally done when the sun rises. Kate asks how Jude is and Roger starts off as if he's about to deliver some bad news. And then tells her that he's fine now, but asleep. He has no doubt that Jude will start complaining once he wakes up

Kate thanks Harrison, but that should be his line. Roger's gonna go take a nap until Jude wakes up. But first, asks Harrison to wake him up when Jude does

Kate goes to get water for when Jude wakes up and when she returns, Harrison's gone. From the couch, Roger tells her that he went out. Kate asks why he didn't stop him, and Roger replies that it's not his job. He tells her to go after him; Harrison hasn't gone far, should catch up to him if she follows the river. Back to sleep he goes

For once, it's Kate watching Harrison's back. She's never seen someone look so lonely. She runs up to him and his eyes are the darkest/dullest she's ever seen them be.

Kate can't help but cover his eyes

Chapter 19 (normal avatar route)

Harrison tells Kate to remove her hand but she refuses. She asks him not to look at her with those depressing eyes

She thought she could help make him feel better, but she can't. Not when he holds everything in and covers them up with lies

Harrison asks why she looks like she's about to cry, why she always believes in him. Kate believes in his lies; let her believe in his lies

Kate reminds him that she doesn't give her heart to just anyone. But she wants to entrust her heart to him

Harrison take Kate out to a lake so that they have more privacy. On a boat, he rows them out away from the shore

When asked how much she knows, she tells him what she's heard about his dad and that Jude was present at the shoot out in the mansion where Harrison's family photo was found. Well she's saved him some time with explaining himself

Harrison reveals to Kate that he wanted to be a police officer like his dad. Maybe when he was a kid, he wanted to be a hero. People around him told him to be a lawyer or a teacher, but he was dead set on being a police officer.

However, his dream was shattered one summer when he was 17, when his dad was murdered. At the funeral, he overheard one of his dad's coworkers talking about how his dad and how he could've been taken out because he found out some secret.

The policeman asks Harrison if he heard everything. Harrison lies that he didn't, and his curse manifests. As the other policemen prattle on about his dad, complimenting him and whatnot, a voice in his head tells him that they're lying. With his curse, he finds out just full of themselves the policemen are.

Harrison had come to the conclusion that he was cursed because he had lied and turned away from find the truth about his dad. That the curse was a punishment

Harrison plans to reveal the truth behind his dad's murder and take revenge on the one responsible. He can't live normally and lost his dream, so this is all he has now

In investigating his dad's murder, he found himself involved in a dark world. Several years later, he found out about Crown.

Kate tells him that Alfons had shown her a memory from that night. She apologizes but again, that saved Harrison from having to explain himself

Continuing on, Harrison thought the secret that got his dad killed was that he had found out about Crown the same wy Kate did. That's why he approached Crown. However, he soon realized that he was wrong

The Privy Council as well as 3 of the higher-ups in Scotland Yard were responsible for his dad's death

The Privy Council and the police have been working together to dismantle Crown and eliminate the cursed. The police don't like Crown because the latter's stronger.

Kate asks if his dad was killed because he helped Crown. Yep. When his dad found out about the Privy Council and the police working together, he tried to warn Crown

Oh, turns out Harrison's known that his dad and Victor were friends

When Harrison found out about everything, he approached the Privy Council to condemn them. They admitted that they were colluding with the top of the police force because there was no actual evidence that they were behind his dad's murder. And then the Privy Council blamed the police for the murder.

Kate asks why Victor couldn't tell the Queen about what happened and have everyone fired. Harrison explains that there was no solid evidence and didn't know if it would endanger Crown.

Harrison mentions that he joined the Privy Council as someone who'd help them get back at the top 3 of the police.

He had also hoped that by joining them, it'd turn their focus away from getting rid of Crown, but he too has tricked Crown too many times. Even almost killed Jude.

Kate thinks back to when Roger was supposed to go on that mission with Ellis instead of Jude. Without Roger's hearing, Harrison's plan was ruined

Kate asks if he's been lying to protect everyone else. Yep. But Harrison adds that he's not a good person, it's all for his own sake. He wants to see how WIlliam lives by his own aesthetics. Liam's finally found a home in Crown and if he loses it, Harrison's going to have to take care of him. Even the thought of living with another person is horrifying. Harrison continues on with the others as if talking about about the weather

HE CALLS VICTOR A LONG-HAIRED OLD GEEZER - he'd throw such a huge tantrum that it'd shake the nation. Kate agrees

Despite how casually he's talking about all this, Kate can sense love in his words

Kate asks about his feelings for revenge. Harrison asks if she thinks he's going to kill the Privy Council and the policemen. He'll never stop hating them, but the feeling won't go away even after taking revenge. Taking revenge causes a chain reaction, and he's not going to perpetuate that.

He can't be the hero he wanted to be or join the police, but he at least he can lie his way through things. Well, the stuff he's said could've all been lies. Kate doesn't believe that.

Why's Kate looking at him like that. Harrison strokes her cheek and kisses her there. He points out that she's crying. Oh, she didn't even realize

Harrison kisses her tears and tells her to stop crying or else he'll lose himself. There he goes being mean again

Kate thanks him for baring his heart. She's tells him that she won't cry again, that she'll get stronger. All so that he won't be alone anymore.

Harrison calls her a softy and kisses her, on the lips this time

Chapter 20

The sun sets and they're still on the lake. As Kate speaks up, Harrison asks Kate if she wants another kiss, but he's just joking around

Kate asks about the picture that was found at the mansion the night Jude got shot. Harrison's sure it was something that was on his dad's person. Meaning the Privy Council or the police were involved. Harrison's sure that it was the former. A message telling him that it was time for revenge

Harrison had signed a contract when he joined the Privy Council: He'll give them info about Crown and in exchange, he wanted them to gather the three in one place so that he can exact revenge

Apparently the top 3 of the police force, called the 3 eagles, live outside the UK. Whereabouts unknown

It's been 3 years since Harrison signed a contract with the council.

What would the Privy Council do if Harrison were to kill the top three? A member of the Queen's private army killing members of the police would sure be something. And leverage to dismantle Crown

Harrison will either die or be imprisoned

He'll be confronting 2 eagles on the next full moon, which is only a few days away. He'll be away from the castle until then since the Privy Council's watching him. He needs to play the part of the vengeful fox until then

Kate asks Harrison to bring her on that night. He knows she won't give in even if says no. Anyway, he can't just talk about all of this with her and settle this all by himself

Harrison asks if she'll be his accomplice and join him in falling in to darkness. Of course she will. Seems she's about to confess but he stops her. Wait until the night of the full moon when he comes to get her from her balcony

He makes a reference to Romeo and Juliet, but Kate doesn't want a tragedy. She'd like to avoid the tragic end a cursed one's destined to meet

Kate asks Harrison to be sure to pick her up. She's her personal fairy tale writer after all. She needs to write every detail down. Harrison promises that he'll come for her

Harrison asks for her hand and gives her a can of candy. While he's away, if she ever feels anxious, she can eat a piece of candy. He put a spell to make the feeling disappear. Well that's a lie. And out of character for him to say

They paddle back to shore and Harrison disappears off into the night

Jude wakes up a few days later and returns to the castle

Kate welcomes him home and he tells her to shut up, her voice's hurting his wound.

Ellis welcomes him home and Jude's weirded out. He also thanks Jude for protecting him and the latter tells him that he doesn't need thanks if it doesn't pay him back. He'll be working Ellis to the bone

As Roger expected, Jude's a pain in the ass once he's up and talking.

Jude tells Roger to shut up; he lost a lot of money because he couldn't work due to being asleep

Soon, the night of the full moon arrives. As Kate waits for Harrison, she types to distract herself. She writes down everything Harrison's told her.

Tapping on the window catches her attention

[marykk1990]

My next post in support of Ukraine is:

Next site, Brody Castle in Brody, Lviv Oblast. It's a former fortress, and it was first mentioned in writings from the 1580s. In 1629, the town of Brody came under the control of Hetman Stanisław Koniecpolski, a Polish military commander, and he added more fortifications to the fortress. In 1648, the fortress was able to withstand a several weeks long siege by Cossack troops during the Khmelnytsky Uprising. In 1651, it was used as a Polish military base during the Battle of Berestechko, which was a battle between Zaporizhian Cossacks, with their Crimean Tatar allies, against the army of King John II Casimir of Poland. The fortress was used to hold captured Cossacks from the battle. The Potocki family, whom I've mentioned before, acquired the castle in 1704 and reconstructed the castle to be their residence. Since then, over the years, several of the fortress fortifications were demolished. After WWII, it housed a military unit. It was also damaged during other reconstructions. The only structure still fully standing is the residence built by the Potocki family.

#SlavaUkraïni 🇺🇦🌻

And, here's a link to a tweet about another castle in Lviv Oblast that I posted on Twitter on May 23, 2023. A castle in Pidhirsti, Ukraine.

[soren-apologist]

ok so in the tags of my last post there were people apparently interested in my thoughts on a king soren au

i’ve mentioned some stuff about it earlier but here are a few more notes i had

so my idea was that ashnard initiates the war the same way as in fe9, but in this case elincia’s knights do actually manage to deliver her to gallia under caineghis’ asylum. the greil mercenaries are never formed because gawain came back to daein after some time in gallia over concern for the young prince soren, so elena is still alive and ike and mist are raised in daein, where they become close friends of soren’s and the former would eventually become his right hand man.

anyway as for elincia’s knights i’m personally thinking that oscar and titania would continue to be royal knights of crimea and would be among the ones escorting her to gallia, with boyd and rolf tagging along as well to stay with their brother. considering titania could effectively solo the entirety of daein’s troops in fe9’s early game getting elincia to gallia would probably be a lot more successful than it was in the canon timeline.

under ashnard soren serves as his reluctant tactician, though he’s privately against the war itself especially since he has ike and mist nearby who definitely detest the violence. he stands alongside one of the riders, gawain, to defend nevassa while ashnard and the rest of his riders (petrine, bryce, bertram) go on the offensive and fight against gallia and eventually the forces elincia rallies between gallia and begnion.

when elincia’s forces attack nevassa (so essentially chapter 21) instead of ena defending the castle it’s soren and gawain’s troops. it’s especially brutal since, well, it’s gawain and ike fighting under soren’s guidance, but midway through the battle elincia manages to sneak her way to the throne where soren is and essentially appeal to his sense of decency. ike immediately retreats from his position to protect soren, only to overhear the discussion and decide to agree with elincia, which is the tipping point for soren and he decides to defect from ashnard’s army and rally his own troops to stop ashnard’s mad campaign and end the fighting as soon as possible.

essentially, this means daein is split between king ashnard with his riders and prince soren with general gawain and captain ike. from there the plot would follow similarly to fe9’s, except begnion never occupied daein. in a similar fashion to fe9, ike is part of what allows gallia, begnion, and daein to cooperate with each other, and eventually ashnard is defeated in melior and elincia ascends to the crimean throne.

yeah this is just part of the setup i had in mind since this only explains what happened instead of fe9. i’d imagine that soren would be as pragmatic and cutthroat as the originals, but maybe a little more empathetic and compassionate because his upbringing wasn’t nearly as shitty. tbh ike would probably be just about the same as before lol

[warwickroyals]

I think it’s time to hear a George and Alexandra love story! 💕

Yeah, I do think it's time to learn about George and Alexandra's love story.

King George was born the son of the Duke and Duchess of Glencairn. The was born during a time when Sunderland was struggling to produce a male heir to succeed George's uncle King Louis III. So when George was born he was celebrated as first in line to the throne . . .

That was until George's cousin Prince Louis was born a year later. Louis was the son of the Duke of Lennox, Louis III's heir presumptive, and was higher up in the line of succession than George. This angered George's parents because, what the fuck, George was the oldest surviving grandson of King Louis II, he should be king. When King Louis III died, the Duke of Lennox became King James. His mother did not like James or his wife Caroline, and to avoid the drama she took George and his sister back to her father's home in London. By this time George's father had also died.

Now, the Duchess's father was a British statesman and he filled George's head with all sorts of ideas about imperialism. He wanted to see Sunderland transformed into an Empire as mighty as Great Britian, with his grandson as king, of course. Pretty evil, huh? But you can't really start your super cool Empire without a family dynasty. George's cousin Louis was weak and rumoured to be impotent; it was widely accepted that Geroge would become King someday, and finding him a bride became a top priority.

So, George embarked on a journey to find a suitable wife. He originally had hoped to marry one of Queen Victoria's daughters, but these plans fell through. So, he travelled around Europe and eventually ended up at Winter Palace, where he met the eldest daughter of Alexander II, Grand Duchess Alexandra Alexandrovna of Russia. The two hit it off instantly and had a shared love of music, literature, and history. However, Russia was an enemy of Britian during the Crimean War, and George's ailing grandfather disapproved of the match.

But fuck him honestly.

Prince Louis became King Louis IV, but he was so sickly, he died three years later. George became king and one of the first things he did once his succession was secure was return to Russia and formally propose to Alexandra. One of the issues preventing them from getting married was George's questionable status, but now that George was King he was truly worthy of the daughter of an Emperor. Alexander II didn't want his daughter to leave Russia, but he saw how in love Alexandra was and he just couldn't say no.

George and Alexandra had two wedding ceremonies, a Russian Orthodox ceremony at Winter Palace, and then a Lutheran ceremony at St. John's Chaple at Woodbine Castle. When Alexandra arrived in Sunderland she was greeted with a lot of enthusiasm, people were genuinely captivated by this foreign princess. One of the first things George did for his new bride was build an Orthodox chapel on the grounds of Woodbine Castle so that Alix wouldn't feel homesick.

The pair were married for sixty years. It was one of the longest marriages in Sunderland's royal history. After decades of dysfunctional marriages between young women and Warwick princes twice their age, it was great that the public finally had two young people who were equally committed to each other at the centre of the monarchy. Over eleven years, they had nine children. Their marriage suffered some low points over the years, but both remained extremely passionate and devoted. It's a really fascinating relationship and we will learn more about them in the near future, I'm writing up a mini biography about one of their daughters as we speak <3

[amitieos]

fodlan profile: elincia

from shadoll

PERSONAL INFORMATION

GENDER: Female AGE: 24 HEIGHT: 156cm /5'1" DATE OF BIRTH: 23rd October / 23rd of the Wyvern Moon, Imperial Year 1156 CREST/HOLY BLOOD: None CLASS: Black Eagles Professor AFFILIATION: Crimea, Tellius

BIOGRAPHY: Daughter of the late King Ramon of Crimea, Elincia was raised in secrecy, away from the court and out of the public eye. Her less than conventional upbringing fostered a uniquely humble outlook in the young Queen. Aware of her shortcomings, Elincia enterred Garreg Mach in order to learn more of the world outside her personal bubble and meet people from all walks of life in hopes of being better equipped to serve her people. PERSONAL HISTORY

1156 - Born to The Wise King Ramon of Crimea in the winter of the late King's life - As her uncle, Lord Renning, the Crown Prince had already been named her father's successor, Elincia was raised by House Delbray and her birth kept a secret from the populace. Neighbouring leaders however, knew of her existence

1174 - Start of the Mad King's War. Witnesses the death of her parents at the hand of King Ashnard during the fall of Castle Melior, she is forced to flee alone - Rescued by a mercenary company on the run from King Ashnard

1174-1175 Alongside Greil's mercenaries, defeats the Mad King and reclaims Crimea's independence - As the only known member of the Crimean royal line alive, Elincia is crowned Queen

1177 - Puts down a rebellion lead by Duke Ludveck in the Crimean Civil War

1177 - Ascends the Tower of Guidance as part of the Hawk Army. Aids in the defeat of Ashera and restoration of the petrified people of Tellius

1180 - Appoints her uncle, Lord Renning, as regent and travels to Garreg Mach to improve herself as a leader.

INTERESTS: Needlework, housework, reading and riding. LIKES: Sweets, learning new things, socialising, flowers DISLIKES: Violence, injustice, warfare, loneliness, unclean spaces. STATUS: Queen of Crimea CLOSE ALLIES: Micaiah, Byleth (Billie), Phina (Lucia, Geoffrey, Ike)

DINING HALL PREFERENCES

LIKES: saghert and cream, fish and bean soup, vegetable pasta salad, onion gratin soup, sweet and salty whitefish sauté, sweet bun trio, fruit and herring tart, garreg mach meat pie, pheasant roast with berry sauce, fish sandwich, pickled rabbit skewers, super spicy fish dango, peach sorbet, two fish sauté, gronder meat skewers, sautéed pheasant and eggs, gautier cheese gratin, vegetable stir fry, bourgeois pike, derdriu style pheasant DISLIKES: beast meat teppanyaki, grilled herring, small fish skewers, sautéed jerky, spicy fish and turnip stew, country-style red turnip plate, daphnel stew, cabbage and herring stew, fried crayfish

DINING HALL NOTES

FAVOURITE DISH ✧

"This is positively delightful! Why, I could even go for seconds!"

STANDARD DISH ✧

"Do you know what's even better than good food? Sharing it with good company, of course."

LEAST FAVOURITE DISH ✧

"This... isn't really to my tastes but I'd hate to be wasteful. Or offend the chef, I'm sure they worked very hard to cook today's meal."

WITH MICAIAH/LUCIA ✧

"It's been quite sometime since we've had the pleasure to share a meal together. Let's savour the opportunity just as much as the food."

WITH BYLETH ✧

"Ah, food tastes better when I share it with you! Speaking of which... are you planning to finish that or shall I help you out?"

TEA TIME GUIDE

FAVOURITE TEA: Bergamot, Rose Petal Blend

CONVERSATION TOPICS: a dinner invitation, a new sword technique, books you've read recently, capable comrades cats, children at the market, crimea's future, i'm counting on you, exploring the monastery, favourite sweets, likeable allies, overcoming weakness, past laughs, pegasus care, perfect recipes, reliable allies, the ideal professor, the library's collection, the opera, things you find romantic, working together, you're doing great work

TEA TIME QUOTES

GREETING ✧

"It's an honour to be invited, truly." "I'd be delighted to keep you company." "Oh, how lovely! Did you bake these yourself by any chance?"

FAVOURITE TEA ✧

"What a surprise, how did you know this was my favourite? I must learn yours so I can treat you next time."

FIVE STAR TEA ✧

"Oh my, this is rather expensive. I hope I haven't inconvenienced you in any way."

BEING OBSERVED ✧

"Do I have something on my face? Why else would you be starting so intently...?" "Ahaha, sorry. I'm not used to being gazed at in such a way. I'm admittedly a little nervous!" "Well, if you must insist on staring at me I will respond in kind! After all, I'm sure you're far more interesting than I am."

QUIPS ✧

"Ah! Oops, I think I scalded my tongue." "What a refreshing beverage!" "These sweets are delicious... could I possibly have one more?" "How have you been keeping?" "Me? Oh, I've been well! Keeping busy with my students" "How lovely..." "Thank you so much!" "Ahh, it's warm."

ENDING ✧

"Thank you so much for your time. I'd love to do this again, but please, let me treat you next we meet!"

FINAL COMMENTS ✧

(1) Do you think my students are progressing well? I hope so, they're all so talented and full of potential! ANSWER: Commend, Nod, Agree (2) I loathe violence, as did my father before him. Sadly, this sword is all I have left of him, other than the weight of the crown. ANSWER: Sip tea, Sigh (3) My pegasus was my great-grandmother's. We've been dear friends since I could walk. Perhaps that's why he's so protective of me, even to this day. ANSWER: Laugh, Chat (4) My own lack of resolve allowed Duke Ludveck to raise a rebellion and disturb the peace of Crimea. Never again can I allow such a thing to happen to my people. Not for a man who seeks only strength and power.. ANSWER: Disagree, Admonish (5) I have grown much since my time at the royal villa. Yet the more I grow, the more I'm aware of all the ways I'm still lacking. It's not such a bad thing... ANSWER: Chat, Sip tea. (6) I've made so many friends since I came to the academy! Every day is filled with new things to learn and people to meet! ANSWER: Commend, Chat (7) Selfish as it may be, I often felt quite lonely growing up. Things are different now though. I do feel blessed each day. ANSWER: Sip tea, Nod (8) I never knew such evil could exist in this world until I lost my parents. That hurt deeply, of course, but the one thing I could never forgive was the oppression of our people. ANSWER: Sigh, Nod (9) One day, I'd love to host you in Crimea! It's a beautiful country, filled with warm, generous people. Melior is renowned for it's library and academics, too! ANSWER: Laugh, Chat, Agree

MISCELLANEOUS DIALOGUE

GIFT GUIDE FAVOURITE GIFTS: tasty baked treat, floral adornment, gemstone beads, armoured bear stuffy, watering can, riding boots, monarch studies book, ceremonial sword, landscape painting, legends of chivalry, daffodil, owl feather DISLIKED GIFTS: training weight, hunting dagger, whetstone, blue cheese, pitcher plant

GIFT QUOTES

DISLIKED GIFT ✧

"Oh my... would someone else not appreciate this even more?"

LIKED GIFT ✧

"How very kind of you! You really shouldn't have."

FAVOURITE GIFT ✧

"Wow! This is truly wonderful! You must really care for me to have chosen something so carefully, thank you!"

LOST ITEMS

EMBROIDERY NEEDLE. A thin, steel needle which still has a pale orange thread attached. Likely belongs to someone skilled at housework who enjoys arts and crafts. Found: Black Eagles Classroom, by the desk PEARL NECKLACE. Of great lustre and fine craftsmanship. Likely a family heirloom of a noble or royal house. Probably belongs to someone of means who is perhaps too trusting for their own good. It might have sentimental value. Found: Dining hall BOX OF PEGASUS TREATS. High quality, delicious snacks for the most finnicky and particular of pegasi. Belongs to someone who adores animals and perhaps rides a pegasus into battle. Found: Stables

LOST ITEM QUOTES

OWNER ✧

"Bless the stars, thank you for finding this for me. I owe you a great debt for returning it swiftly!"

NOT OWNER ✧

"Ah, forgive me but that isn't mine. Perhaps I could help you find it's true owner? They surely must miss it dearly."

BATTLE QUOTES

MOCK BATTLE QUOTES

"Congratulations! You've bested me today. I'll fall back before anyone gets seriously hurt." (Byleth specific) "Heehee, you won this round Billie! Well done!"

FIRST KILL

"Taking a life is a terrible burden, one I don't take lightly. Yet the murder of an innocent is a far more heinous crime. It is unforgivable."

MONASTERY QUOTES

CHOIR PRACTICE ✧

"Heehee, I do love to sing! Though I'm nowhere near as gifted as my dear friend Leanne." "My mother was an accomplished musician. I lack her natural gift, but this does make me feel closer to her."

COOKING ✧

"It might surprise you to know but I'm actually quite a skilled cook! You're not the first to tell me that's not very princess-like, haha!" "Oh I've never made this recipe before! But I'm sure if we work together the results will be delicious." "Ah, that smell is delectable! I can't wait to let everyone dig in to this scrumptious meal."

TUTORING

INSTRUCT

BAD

"Forgive me, I lost my focus. I promise to try harder and do better next time!" CRITIQUE: "I'm sorry, you're absolutely right. I ought not waste your time." CONSOLE: "Yes! I'll definitely do better from here on out!"

GREAT

"I could not have done this without your excellent instruction." "Don't worry, I'll keep working hard. I have no intention of resting on my laurels!"

PERFECT

"Heehee, you're a great teacher and I'm a natural! We're unstoppable."

TASKS

STABLE DUTY ✧

"I love spending time with the horses, they're such graceful and gentle creatures!"

WEEDING ✧

"Let's work together and clean this area up pronto! Then the flowers can finally bloom properly."

SKY WATCH ✧

"I don't wish to boast but I am a decent flier. If you're nervous or need any tips, I'd be more than happy to help."

CERTIFICATION EXAMS

FAILED ✧

"Oh dear. It appears my efforts were inadequate. I'll make sure to study even harder for next time!"

PASSED ✧

"Wow! I didn't know I had this in me. I couldn't have done it alone."

UPDATE GOALS

FLYING ✧

"I've ridden a pegasus since I was a little girl. Soaring through the air is when I feel my most whole and free. Perhaps I could hone my skills to become more evasive and dangerous to our foes on the battlefield?"

REASON AND FAITH ✧

"I have some training in healing and faith magic already that I could improve upon but... I'd like to challenge myself. Perhaps reason lessons would help me diversify my skillset to better protect my allies. What do you think?"

SWORDS ✧

"Amiti has been passed down through House Crimea for generations. My father, admittedly, refused to use it. However, I've found that sometimes peace needs to be protected. If I can master the sword, perhaps that alone would be deterrent enough..."

AUTHORITY ✧

"I came to Garreg Mach to become a stronger, wiser leader for my people. I think studying authority would help me further such goals and allow me to aid our allies on the battlefield in new ways. Would you be willing to teach me what you know?"

LEVEL UP

0 TO 2 STATS ✧

"Small steps, however meagre, still lead one forward."

3 TO 4 STATS ✧

"The efforts of myself and my teachers have blossomed. I'm proud of this!"

5+ STATS INCREASED ✧

"To think such potential slumbered within me. I will use these talents to pave a bright and happy future for the people of Crimea."

AT LEVEL 99/ALL OR MOST STATS RAISED ✧

"I may have exhausted what I can learn on the battlefield but there is still much to be learned elsewhere. Further practice too shall help keep my skills sharp!"

BUDDING TALENT ✧

"What a joy it is to find untapped potential and let it bloom in full colour!"

NEW SKILL ✧

"I worked hard for this! Now, to put it to good use."

RECLASSING ✧

"Fascinating! I'll apply myself and learn what I can." "I will pursue mastery of this for the sake of all!" "Wow, I didn't even know I could do this! I'll do my best with this!"

BATTLE QUOTES

FULL/HIGH HP ✧

"With my allies beside me, I cannot lose!"

HALF HP ✧

"This battle is harsh and turbulent. Let us rally together and push towards victory!"

LOW HP ✧

"No... for the sake of Crimea I must push ever onwards!"

ENEMY DEALS 1 OR 0 DAMAGE OR MISSES ✧

"My swift steed deserves all the praise."

CRITICAL ATTACK ✧

"A sound thrashing for you!" "If I must, I will not err!" "I will hesitate no longer." "If you insist on violence... so be it!" "For the sake of Crimea and all I love..." "You leave me no choice. I'm sorry."

GAMBIT ✧

"I will not allow you to proceed any further. Turn back, or force my hand!"

GAMBIT BOOST ✧

"You have my aid, I pray that it is enough."

DEFEATED ENEMY ✧

"Too slow!" "You ought to have surrendered." "That's quite enough from you!"

ALLY DEFEATS ENEMY ✧

"I always feel safe beside you." "Our enemies pale in comparison to your skill and talent." "Excellent work, my friend!"

ALLY HEALS/RALLIES ✧

"Bless you, I can continue forth now." "My deepest gratitude." "I am ever by your side." "Thank you, I really needed that." "That's a great help. Let me know if you need anything." "Together we are stronger than any foe that stands before us." "It is our bonds of friendship that make us truly unbeatable."

DEFEAT QUOTE

CASUAL ✧

"Forgive me, I've over done it. I have to fall back, Crimea still needs me,"

CLASSIC ✧

"Father, Mother... I'm sorry... I wasn't strong enough to build the future our people deserve... I have failed you all..."

THE ADVICE BOX ✧

"My students are exceptional and filled with boundless potential! But I am lacking in many way, especially as a teacher. What can I do to best aid them in their personal growth?" (Answer) Be attentive and listen to their needs. They may have troubles beyond the classroom.

[freedomarrow]

19. A memory of someone they don’t see anymore

(also asked by @rockroselazuli)

To my dearest son,

I was delighted and thankful to learn that my previous letter found you in good health. I pray that this one does, as well. For our part, we are both doing well. You are mature and strong, so I do not believe I should hide from you that Michel had in fact suffered a wound in our last battle - but he has already received help and healing, and is on the road to recovery. A scar on his face will inevitably remain, but he will be just fine.

I know that you are fully aware this was not our choice and do not blame us, but both of us nevertheless wish to apologize to you for our absence during your thirteenth birthday. With much regret, all I can offer is the satchel I send attached along with this letter. Within it you will find a total of 3,000 gold pieces - a responsible young man like you will no doubt know how to use it. I hope you can find a way to organize yourself a celebration of your own, my dear son.

I swear to you that, once this is over, Michel and I will return home and make up for all the time we are currently spending apart. Unfortunately I cannot predict when this will happen - not only has the resistance of the Crimean knights increased somewhat as of late, but also the plans of His Highness are unknown to me, and it appears as though they may be something greater than I originally thought. As of now, we are ordered to continue stationing in the Crimean capital of Melior. I must confess that this city and its castle are quite marvelous, and I am glad His Highness did not order us to destroy it. Perhaps, once the war is over, I will have a chance to take you here for a trip, so that you may see it yourself, as well.

I am delighted to hear that you are studying well and achieving such good results, and that you and Mr Tavang are managing our lands. I hope you know that you are a pride to the house, and your father could not be happier.

Please continue updating me on your progress and news from home. On my part, I will write again at the earliest opportunity, as well.

With unending love,

Dad

[mikegunnill]

The (nearly) forgotten Whitstable Diver.

John Deane and his brother had a chance to try out an invention when the Bear and Key public house, caught fire.

On previous tests they had designed a makeshift-helmet, made from a suit of armour, with an air-pipe attached to a bellows. Several horses were trapped in the High Street, Whitstable pub, and using the new device John Deane walked through the smoke, saving all the coaching house horses.

John sold the smoke-mask patent, number 4869 to his employer for £417.

picture: The Bear and Key, right.

The successful rescue, gave the brothers an idea to develop the helmet for use, under water. They continued, what was now termed *diving equipment* in 1829, by working on the Carn Brea Castle. John and Charles Deane worked together on the wreck of the Royal George, during which John discovered the wreck of the Mary Rose.

picture: An early Deane diving helmet.

John Deane’s family, lived in a white-boarded cottage on Island Wall, the property was called Free Diver Cottage, but is now known as, The Crab and Winkle. On the front outside wall Canterbury City Council have installed, a blue plaque, noting that:

< John Deane 1800–1884. The Co-inventor of diving equipment and the diving helmet, lived here 1848–1854.>

The cottage which has changed little over the years, and is now, in great demand as a holiday rental property.

picture: John Deane’s cottage in Whitstable. Copyright: Mike Gunnill

During the Great Exhibition of 1851 several officials from The Admiralty viewed and inspected Deane’s ‘new’ diving equipment, along with his demonstrations held in a large glass fronted water tank. The men from the Admiralty would later seek John Deane out, needing help during the Crimean War, between October 1853 and February 1856.

picture: Deane’s warehouse in Whitstable.

John Deane with his family were living at 65 Island Wall, the home of the Browning family, when he was approached by the Surveyor of the Navy 1848–1861, Admiral Sir Baldwin Walker 1802–1876 on the 16th October, 1854.

Two days later, after negotiations, Deane signed a diving-contract, for one guinea a day, plus all board and lodging and if successful, a gratuity of £200 at the end of his work. As a matter of urgency, the Admiralty wanted him to take a team of four experienced civilian divers to the Crimean War. Not only did the country require John Deane for his diving skills, but also for his knowledge of using explosives under water.

The Russians had shuttled several ships at Sebastopol/Savastopol blocking the harbour. Somehow these vessels, had to cleared as the Crimean War was going badly for the British. His diving experience would be tested, as the plan involved placing specially made 1000 lb explosive devices on the underwater hazards. Sailing with him was friend, diving partner 1834–1855 and business partner William Edwards. The pair left Portsmouth on Sunday, the 26th of November, 1854 on board the ship, The Robert Lowe with the bomb cylinders and diving equipment.

Extra diving equipment was also loaded on to the store ship, HMS Prince which was making the same voyage. On board this vessel were two other divers, James Rigden and George Allen, both were well known Whitstable men.

Soon after arriving off Balaklava in November 1854, HMS Prince sank with the loss of 154 men, including the two Whitstable divers, Rigden and Allen. All the extra diving equipment was also lost, along with the main ship’s cargo, much needed winter grey coats, undergarments, socks and boots, for 40,000 British troops.

Deane and Edwards on their arrival, had the unpleasant task of diving on the ship, to see what could be recovered from the wreck.

picture: John Deane. Copyright Cambridge Library.

The Robert Lowe stopped in Malta and then finally arrived at Scutari, in Turkey. The Selimiye Barracks, were allocated as the main British Army barracks for the war. The barracks became a temporary military hospital, where in November 1854 Florence Nightingale arrived with 37 volunteer nurses, staying until 1857.

John Deane had to find replacement divers, for the those lost when HMS Prince sank. He wrote to his friend, James Bell a diver from East Street, Herne Bay to find three other men and to travel to join him. It is thought one of the new crew included William Bell, the son of James who now lived on Marine Parade, Herne Bay and was an old business partner of John Deane’s. The replacement team and diving equipment left Portsmouth in January 1855.

On the 23rd of May, 1855; Whitstable man, William Edwards left the main diving party on a secret mission to Kerch. Located further along the coast, it guarded a narrow passage-way into the Sea of Azov, which was blocked by shuttled Russian ships.

The clearance plans were a great success but not without the loss of William Edwards. During the final weeks of blowing up two Russian naval ships, Edwards contracted cholera and was transferred to a hospital ship, thought to be HMS Belleisie. William Edwards was born in High Street, close to Queenborough Harbour, the Isle of Sheppey, on the 27th of January, 1801. He was a married man with a daughter from his previous marriage, and a Master Mariner. William Edwards died on board the hospital ship in Kerch Bay on the 31st of August, 1855. He was buried in a British cemetery within the grounds of Fort Saint Paul, Kerch.

John Deane took the news of William Edward’s death very hard. He had been a friend-business partner for 25 years, and during the journey to the Crimea a constant companion. Deane wrote to his second wife, Mrs Sarah Edwards and daughter Ann, to break the news of her husband’s death. The letter dated, the 2nd September, was received two months later in Whitstable.

The Edward’s old home, by this time, had been converted into The Lower Hope beer house. Which, after renumbering, is at number 9 High Street in Whitstable. 

Today in Sebastopol or Kerch, there are no British cemeteries or neat rows of graves for the war dead, like other British conflicts. Just after troops and naval personel left the Crimea, many of the graves were desecrated, opened and plundered. By 1900 there were few British cemeteries left, and those that remained were bulldozed and cleared in the late 1950’s under order from Nikita Khrushchev, the soviet premier.

John Deane continued his clearance work around Sebastopol harbour, which included defusing several mine-fields. The Russians had laid a series of wired mines in the main channel, which all had to be cleared by hand.

In January 1856, Deane wrote to Sarah Ann Browning back in Whitstable, mentioning his diving duties. “We are getting on really well with the destruction of the Docks. Frequently using several thousand pounds of gunpowder, every day. The havoc, as you can imagine, is frightfully grand.”

John Deane was officially discharged from Government service on the 10th of July, 1855 but stayed on, to help and assist the Royal Engineers. It was in June of 1856 that Deane and his other two Whitstable divers finally left Balaclava harbour on board the Robert Lowe, arriving in Portsmouth on August 4th.

Deane returned to Whitstable as a hero and a local celebrity in 1856. His exploits had been reported extensively in The Times newspaper by William Howard Russell, who had nicknamed Deane “The Infernal Diver.”  More importantly after two years he was reunited with his children. son Edmund, and daughters Agnes, Caroline and Susannah. John was keen to see Sarah Browning who had managed his business affairs and corresponded with him, sometimes in a private secret code. Their relationship naturally developed and within a short time, they were married in Whitstable.

picture: Sarah Ann Browning.

He retired from the diving industry soon after returning from the war. Deane was a modest, quiet man and he told anyone that asked that, “He had done enough.”

Two of the captured cannons from Sebastopol followed Deane back to Kent. Others were distributed across the Empire and major towns in the United Kingdom. One cannon was presented to the people of Maidstone, in 1858. Number 24386 and sits at Lower High Street pointing towards the River Medway.  Not to be out-done by the county town, Rochester asked if they could have a cannon as well!  It was duly presented in 1859, again by Lord Panmure. In 1899 it was sited to Rochester Castle Gardens, where it has remained ever since providing a useful climbing frame for children of all ages.

Several years after returning from the Crimean War, the Admiralty after much stalling finally paid John Deane, the balance of funds owing to him. This totalled, £1,471. 18s.

Mr and Mrs John Deane lived in Whitstable and then, for a short time in Ramsgate. Sarah Ann Deane died in November 1865, aged 36 years old and her body was transported back to Whitstable for burial.

John Deane married, 43-year-old Ruth Norris in 1868 at Saint Peters Church in Hackney. After a short time living in Whitstable, the couple moved to Ramsgate. About 5 years after marriage, while living in Ramsgate, John Deane had his photograph taken.

picture: Deane and his wife, Ruth at their Ramsgate home. Copyright Cambridge Library.

Their home, was a four-storey terrace property, at Number 90 Hardes Street, which stands today and was owned by the Deane family from 1871 until 1896.

picture: Hardes Street, Ramsgate. Copyright: Mike Gunnill

John Deane, aged 84 years, was buried on the 12th of July,1884 in plot 342 in Ramsgate Cemetery. The large grave holds several family members and can be found in the old section of the cemetery, grave number; HB 342.

picture: John Deane’s grave, Ramsgate. Copyright: Mike Gunnill

Considering the invention of the diving helmet and the impact diving had on Whitstable industry, there are few reminders of the Deane Brothers, in the town. Even less is remembered of William Edwards, who played an important part in the development of diving and the use of explosive materials underwater. His work in the Crimea, with that of John Deane was heroic and helped shorten the conflict.

What does remain in Whitstable, is John Deane’s cottage and a strange modern sculpture, featuring the diver. The sculpture by Paul Richardson, was unveiled in 1995. Commissioned by Canterbury City Council to “reflect local heritage.”  You can find it, in the centre of the car park of Whitstable swimming pool.

John Deane 1800–1884 is sadly, largely forgotten in Whitstable and Kent - which is a shame! There was no better diver or underwater explosive expert in his life time. 

© mikegunnill 2023.

[cheeseburgerdanvers]

Cliff diving competition from Swallow’s Nest Castle, Crimean Peninsula, Ukraine.

[ne-hny-patyk]

ne hny patyk is the transliteration of "не гни патик", a meme phrase used by the band Go_A. It's supposed to mean something like "don't overdo it" but things got weird and now it's a meme

@the-crastle is because of 3rd life smp ZombieCleo and BdoubleO100 team up. Bdubs built a castle and kept on calling it "crastle".

@qirimtatarca-oquyim is supposed to be "qırımtatarca oquyım" - "studying Crimean Tatar". I swear ill come back to this sideblog some day

Open tag!

USERNAME LORE GIVE IT TO ME NOW YOU ALL

[guadalupehesus]

Dear Harry,

The shorts say the female suspect would not have been able to deliver a fatal blow to the top of the head of a tall man, 190 cm tall, given that the woman's height in heels is 167 cm. The woman's hammer barely reaches the back of her head, but not the top.

Furthermore, the little woman could not have struck if the man had knelt down to tie his shoelaces, since the man's knees were bruised from the fall.

This shorts made me think, Harry, that if we had met in 2017 and got married, you would have been the height of a mannequin compared to me, a small woman who is 167 cm in heels. Maybe it’s for the best that we didn’t meet. Otherwise I would have had a complex if smth happened with you (I'm kidding).

Queen Victoria met Alexander II in her youth, and the young people fell in love. But both the English and Russian sides were against this marriage, since both lovers were future monarchs of their countries*. The English side quickly sent Victoria to Windsor Castle. As for the Romanovs, Nicholas I ordered his son to leave England immediately because of rumors that Victoria was the daughter not of the Duke of Kent, but of Victoria's mother's manager. At least, this is what Countess Ficquelmont reported to the Romanovs. Subsequently, the British queen supported the dubious figure of Napoleon III in the Crimean War, which took the lives of many English and Russian soldiers and officers. Rejected, Victoria began to feel hostility towards the Russian imperial family and even tried to dissuade her fourth child Alfred from marrying Grand Duchess Maria Alexandrovna. The marriage took place anyway.

Harry, what I'm saying is that when a future queen is refused marriage, instead of an ally, the rejecting party gets an enemy.

Whoever has ears, let them hear. (Matthew 13:9)

Sincerely yours,

Asel

*This is not a call to take the English throne from your brother.

[dinrelsanddragons]

Alternate Muse Verse: Tellius

IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER:

Alexander Bhelthir: Red dragon, born well after Ashera’s defeat.

Armok Ailbhe: White dragon from Goldoa, left the country due to personally disagreeing with King Deghinsea’s total neutrality policy. Currently residing in Gallia, though he loves visiting Crimea while disguised as a beorc. Before and during the Mad King’s War, he was often Nasir’s contact from Gallia.

Bryn Llwyd: A knight of Crimea who used to moonlight as a mercenary in her younger days. Part of the knights Lucia and Geoffrey gathered to fight with Princess Elincia in the Mad King’s War, and fights with Elincia in Duke Ludveck’s attack. Warrior class.

Delphine Langlois: A common woman who married a nobleman and, in a twist from typical tradition, he adopted her surname as he was a second son. Passes away well before the events of the Mad King’s War, though she left journals that predicted a Prince Ashnard’s rise to the Daein throne and the war he would spread throughout Tellius as king. These journals are kept by her grandson, Hubert. Was of the Thunder Mage class.

Erdan Tiltathana: Black dragon laguz related to King Deghinsea; stays in Goldoa until the Laguz Alliance passes through Goldoa, seeking safety in Gallia, then at Deghinsea’s cold-hearted refusal to allow them passage up until he’s told the heron siblings who saved Rajaion’s soul are with them, decides to defect to the Laguz Alliance, though he doesn’t fight until part 4 of Radiant Dawn.

Elise Bhelthir: Red dragon, before well after Ashera’s defeat.

Felicity Blackscale: Red dragon branded, born well after Ashera’s defeat.

Fennec Blackscale: Red dragon branded, born well after Ashera’s defeat.

Gateni Yaeldrin: A knight of Crimea who was recruited by the Daeins during the Mad King’s War for fighting and testing their warriors after she immolated a number of Daein soldiers alive with her magic in Crimea’s defense. Was then transported to Canteus Castle where she was to be tortured and eventually killed, was then saved by the Greil Mercenaries, and she vanished to tell other knights of Crimea of Princess Elincia’s safety. Sage class, then Fire Sage class.

Gwyn Allaway: A former spy for the Crimean crown, Raven’s wife, and Link’s mother. Not recruitable in the Mad King’s War, but she throws off her disguise of a housewife to aid Princess Elincia during part 2’s endgame, and then again to stop Ashera. Rogue class, upgrades to Assassin.

Halcyon Nivard: A pirate formerly from Hatari who is notably not a wolf laguz, but a fox laguz. Crossed the desert of death well before Queen Nailah and Prince Rafiel, but told none about it because Tellius was just too much fun to leave. Sometimes mistaken for a cat laguz in her reverted form. Fights with the Dawn Brigade, and is recruited at the same time as Volug in something of an awkward twist.

Hubert Langlois: A knight of Crimea and Delphine Langlois’ grandson, keeper of the journals that predicted the end of Tellius as it was known. Among the troupe of knights fighting by Lucia and Geoffrey’s sides in the Mad King’s War, and defends Princess Elincia in part 2’s endgame. Sage class, then Thunder Sage class.

Isaac Michaels: A knight of Daein once upon a time, who defected to Crimea after meeting Lita, the red dragon, who was decidedly not the monster he was told a dragon laguz would be. Fights for Crimea late in the Mad King’s War, then is recruited into Elincia’s knights and fights with Geoffrey in part 2. Paladin class, and then silver paladin.

Lambda Blackscale: Heron branded, like Micaiah. An able healer and user of light magic who bears no ties to the clergy, though unlike Micaiah, she cannot see the future, heal without a staff, or sing the Galdr of Release. Fights with the Blackscale thieves, a band of rogues in Daein. Often mistaken for Micaiah in battle because of her light magic. Light Mage class, promotes to Light Sage, and finally to Archsage. You know. Sort of like Pelleas.

Leonard Edwards: A knight of Crimea who fights alongside Lucia and Geoffrey in the Mad King’s War, then defends Elincia in Duke Ludveck’s uprising. Swordmaster class.

Link Allaway: A young knight of Crimea who was tasked with protecting Princess Elincia during her flight from Melior, escaped capture by the Daeins by pure chance, and happened to stumble into the Greil Mercenaries’ battle with the Daein troops sent to find her in the road to Melior. Myrmidon class.

Lita Arcuna: A red dragon formerly of Goldoa who left early on in the history of Tellius (As in, when Begnion was barely a country) to see the world and observe its happenings. Only returned to Goldoa after Ashera’s defeat, and found her parents and twin brother dead in Deghinsea’s defense– though she had a new younger brother.

Noel Bhelthir: A red dragon, born well after the defeat of Ashera.

Thorn Stanton: A knight of Daein, and a cat branded. Defects to Crimea with Tauroneo during the fall of Nevassa after hearing Ike tell Tauroneo that their group doesn’t have the luxury of discrimination among who’s willing to fight. Halberdier class.

Raithyon Blackscale: Leader of a band of rogues known as the Blackscales, and a black dragon branded. Has his own fucking chapter in Daein where several groups of rogues and assassins come after Ike on his way back from Palmeni Temple, but Raithyon, seeing the battle go ill for the rogues, withdraws the Blackscales, saying a contract with King Ashnard just isn’t worth dying for. During this fight, Lambda just runs up through the enemy lines to Ike and talks to him, getting recruited immediately. Rogue/Assassin class.

Raven Allaway: Captain of the imperial guard of the knights of Crimea, directly under Prince Renning. Led the Princess Elincia’s escort away from Melior and miraculously escaped capture by the Daeins. Fights with Lucia and Geoffrey in the Mad King’s War, and vanishes with Bastian during Radiant Dawn to recover Prince Renning. Swordmaster/Trueblade class.

Reownha Blackscale: Daughter of Raithyon Blackscale, and a black dragon branded. Not recruitable during the Mad King’s War, but joins with Lambda in Radiant Dawn to aid the Dawn Brigade. Thief class, promotes to Whisper.

Rhoam Bosphoramus: A duke of Begnion and former senator, removed from this political position so Duke Lekain could have complete control over the senate– as Rhoam did his damnedest to block Lekain’s policies where he could. Reinstated as a senator after Ashera’s defeat by Empress Sanaki. Warrior class.

Sandalio Ferro: A knight of Crimea, fights with Lucia and Geoffrey in the Mad King’s War. Accompanies Geoffrey to Duke Ludveck’s trap in part 2 of Radiant Dawn. Paladin class.

Shanz Dinrel: Red dragon, but not of Goldoa– a mysterious man who appears to aid the Greil mercenaries, and fight alongside them. Strangely knows how the Mad King’s War is to play out… and his knowledge even extends into the Laguz Alliance invasion of Begnion, and beyond.

Taunch Kimbatuul: A white dragon branded and a knight of Crimea. Bonds with Stefan and learns much of the meaning of being a swordsman– and a branded– from him. Fights alongside Lucia and Geoffrey during the mad king’s war, and goes with Geoffrey to Duke Ludveck’s trap in part 2 of Radiant Dawn. Swordmaster Class.

Vair Bhelthir: Red dragon of Goldoa, captain of the platoon sent to find Princess Almedha– and the final member of the platoon to be captured, many years later, and his only saving grace that prevented him from being transformed into a feral one was that the Greil Mercenaries and the Crimean army conquered Nevassa before he could be transported to Crimea for Izuka to toy with. Falls in love with Shanz.

Wulf Arcuna: White dragon laguz. Skilled with his breath, but not to attack– when he uses it on an adjacent target, it can heal wounds. Wulf attacks with his claws, though those are significantly weaker than a standard white dragon’s breath. (Basically he’s like Mist mechanically, but a Laguz.) Wanders away from Goldoa before Ashera’s defeat, and joins Micaiah by pure chance by joining up with Kurthnaga and Ena as the Laguz Alliance passes through Daein.

Wynne Mulrennan: A knight of Crimea, standing with Lucia and Geoffrey during the Mad King’s War, and protects Elincia in Radiant Dawn part 2’s endgame. Bishop class.

Zehka Orokane: A white dragon laguz. The only dragon of Goldoa who was there that did not join Ashera, as Ashera seemed to mysteriously miss him. Recruited by Yune instead.

[chaussuresdeballet]

Cliff diving competition from Swallow’s Nest Castle, Crimean Peninsula, Ukraine.