The Grand County of Areli had humble origins in the age of feuding warlords. It was the age before the current borders of the kingdoms, as we know it, were formed. House Areli, the noble House that founded the county, began as one of these many warlords who gradually rose to prominence through many generations of faithful military service to the Great House Ortherion. The posterity of both Houses were secured with the founding of the Kingdom of Tyria.
Even those with a rudimentary map of the Kingdom of Tyria will notice that the Grand County of Areli stands out by its sheer size alone.
The county is known for its rolling hills, serene, grassy plains sprawling as far as the eyes can see, and also its rich military history and tradition.
The wide, fertile lands yield a bountiful harvest of fresh produce, livestock, and artisanal goods that humbly grace the dining tables of commoners, nobles, and monarchs alike.
Some of the finest Aquitanian Red wines are produced here, thanks to the expanse of hills that cradle the morning fog and rolling sea mist to regulate the temperature and sun exposure of the rather delicate grape varieties particular to this region.
Unique among these wines are the Areli Bloodwines. The wines do not actually contain blood but are named such because they are produced from vines planted long ago upon the battlefields of one of the bloodiest of conflicts in the history of this region. It was hence known as the Field of Blood, or the Field of Tears, as thousands upon thousands of lives were claimed in that battle. Losses were heavy on all sides of the conflict; however, the people of Aquitania and Areli emerged as victors and these vines now stand among the oldest in the county and serve as a memorial to the lives given to safeguard one of the greatest eras of peace and security.
The crimson-stained history of the county, the looming grey keeps and towers scattered through the green countryside, and the sight of the fabled Black Lion Stronghold nestled firmly among the tallest of peaks all starkly contrasts the, otherwise, tranquil and beautiful landscape.
It was now the time of year for one of the biggest holidays of the county.
A sea of people, arrayed in colorful garments, peppered the verdant grassland. The songs of minstrels, laughter and joy of the multitude of revelers, and the occasional shouts of artisans and merchants trying to draw attention can also be heard all throughout the Field of Tears.
Judging from the revelry, it is ironic that such is occuring in a place called the Field of Tears (or Blood).
Perhaps it's because those gathered here are generations removed from the losses and sacrifice that took place here.
But House Areli never forgets.
A trumpet blast broke through and silenced the crowds to herald the procession of House Areli nobles and soldiers. The ground rumbled and air resonated from the synchronized march of a column of armored Mann 10 wide and 100 deep. The dark patina of their steel armor, black tabards and cloaks were juxtaposed against the emerald green field. Flags bearing the symbol of the black lion, the symbol of House Areli, fluttered in the gentle breeze as the standard bearers marched with the procession, with the nobles of the House at the very lead.
The procession stopped nearby a raised wooden platform and the nobles proceeded up the steps of the platform to take their seats at the tables prepared for them. The Count remained standing to address the crowd. The silence allowed his voice to carry as he addressed them with the booming voice of one accustomed to battle command.
“My beloved people, we gather here once more in celebration of peace and the memory of the lives of those whose sacrifice had purchased us the ability to enjoy peace and revelry. Let us bow our heads a moment in remembrance.”
A Virtori Bishop then prayed while gently swinging a censer issuing forth a billow of fragrant incense.
The Count then continued, “We stand together here as recipients of that sacrifice, and as brothers and sisters. I beseech you to remember that we are the Lions of Areli! May we not forget nor grow complacent in this time of peace. If we desire peace, we must prepare for war. But enough of this, let us raise our glasses in a toast to honor and valor, and let the festivities commence!”
