Orval Royce

“My ships will sail tonight... my interest in the ships and my thoughts of an adventure to come make me regret my departure less, but even so, I'll stand at the rail as my ship departs into the night waters.”
 -Orval Royce
== History ==
A respectable Guildmaster from an old family, Orval Royce has close ties to the navy. He relies much on old money, and is not the most astute businessman, though he does carry influence. He does not actively court Queen Mercy, but is considered a contender for the throne nonetheless. 
== Personality ==
An austere and reserved man, Orval Royce was raised with high expectations within a family of great means. He believed that great things awaited him, and believed that it was his destiny to serve his country as a hero and one day become King. In truth, Orval Royce, though not lacking in courage and resolve, was a man of mediocre talents and little capacity for introspection. This would prove to be his downfall, as he strode onto the world stage to fight in the War of the Philosopher-Kings, only to be swallowed by it and forgotten. 
== War of the Philosopher-Kings ==
As the Guildmaster of the Shipwright's Guild, Orval Royce was responsible for preparing Guilddon's fleet for invasion, and setting up the supply lines to keep the armies of World's End and the Reich Nördlich operational far from home. In a surprising move, Royce chose to lead Guilddon's invasion force himself. Many observers disdained his choice, for Royce's limited military experience was naval, and it was clear that he sought to use the war as a chance to establish himself as a hero and perhaps even a future monarch. The fears would be proved true as Royce and his men found themselves quickly out of their depth, unable to face the brutality of the northern winter. Though ostensibly the third member of the war council that included Franz Forrawyn and Emperor Arthur, he was quickly sidelined, and earned a reputation as proud, stiff, and unequal to the task of commanding his men. Nonetheless, he acquits himself well during the Siege of Torzhestvo, holding the line and contributing to the final victory against Nadezhda. Upon hearing of the fall of Guilddon to the Atlanteans and the capture of Queen Mercy at the hands of King Raine, Royce would suggest a rapprochement with Brennen of Alara and an end to the war. Franz Forrawyn would rule out the idea out of hand and prepare for the invasion of the northern Final Empire. With the soldiers from World's End already on their way home, Royce chose to act in defense of his Queen, turning on Forrawyn. Many of his men join him in his rebellion, but they are defeated after a bloody and pointless struggle. Royce himself is executed by blood eagle, and his legacy largely forgotten. Category:Four Tales
Category:Guilddon
Category:Dead
Category:Guildmaster
Category:Lawful Good