Killian Booth

## Lord Killian Booth

**Lord Killian Booth** is the venerable patriarch of House Booth, hailing from Rockbridge. A man of intellect and vision, Lord Killian has been instrumental in shaping the cultural and academic landscape of his domain. Notably, he founded the grand library at the Booth Estate, a repository of knowledge that has served as the intellectual cornerstone for generations of the Booth family. His legacy is further enriched by his children, including Mayor Belle Booth of Rockbridge and Professor Bick Booth, the Head of the History and General Studies Department at the Goldsea Institute.

## Early Life and Education

Killian Booth was born in 973 AV during the reign of Georgos I, to Lord Micket Booth and Kendra Booth (née Brackion). His father was once the wealthiest man in Rockbridge, a title later claimed by House Ironhelm. His mother, Kendra, was an immigrant who hailed from a noble line in Fanddrawl. Killian grew up alongside his younger brother, Martt(b. 980). Recognizing the importance of education for his future role as Lord, Killian enrolled at the Goldsea Institute in 992 AV. There, he pursued studies in Venthalian History and Politics under the esteemed Professor Isch Esbrandt. He graduated in 1004 AV, armed with knowledge and a vision for his hometown.

## The Grand Library

Upon his return to Rockbridge, Killian set his sights on a monumental project: the construction of a grand library at the Booth Estate. This endeavor was not merely an architectural feat but a symbol of his commitment to the intellectual growth of his family and community. The library's cornerstone was laid in a grand ceremony attended by the nobility of Rockbridge, scholars from the Goldsea Institute, and even representatives from the Royal Court. The event was marked by a keynote speech from Professor Isch Esbrandt, Killian's mentor, who lauded the project as a "beacon of enlightenment in an ever-darkening world."

The library itself is a marvel of design, featuring high vaulted ceilings, intricate woodwork, and expansive glass windows that allow natural light to illuminate the countless tomes within. Over the decades, Lord Killian has meticulously curated the library's collection, which now boasts rare manuscripts, historical texts, and even magical scrolls. The library also hosts a series of annual lectures, known as the "Booth Symposium," where scholars from across Venthalia gather to discuss various academic topics. These symposiums have become a cornerstone of Rockbridge's cultural calendar, attracting intellectuals and curious minds alike. The library, therefore, serves not only as a repository of knowledge but as a vibrant hub of intellectual discourse.

## Lordship and Family

In 1029 AV, following the passing of his father, Lord Micket Booth, Killian ascended to the Lordship of House Booth. The transition was marked by a solemn ceremony, steeped in the traditions of Rockbridge, where Killian swore an oath to uphold the values and responsibilities of his noble lineage. Shortly thereafter, he entered into matrimony with Maridia Ironhelm, the daughter of Lord Bertha Ironhelm. This union was celebrated with grand festivities that lasted for a fortnight, symbolizing the alliance between two of Rockbridge's most influential families. The marriage also served to strengthen House Booth's economic and political standing, as it facilitated beneficial trade agreements and political alliances with House Ironhelm.

The union of Killian and Maridia produced three remarkable children: Belle, Bick, and Flora. Each has left an indelible mark on both the family and Rockbridge at large. Belle, the eldest and heir presumptive of House Booth, assumed the role of Mayor of Rockbridge in 1071 AV and has been a stabilizing force in local governance. Bick, the middle child, followed in his father's academic footsteps and has become a renowned professor at the Goldsea Institute, becoming head of the History and General Studies department. Flora, the youngest, caused a considerable stir by marrying Jorj Burgsord, a Human. To help Flora and Jorj escape the ensuing scandal in Rockbridge, Bick leveraged his position at the Goldsea Institute to secure a professorship for Jorj in Althean Naval History, a subject for which Jorj had considerable expertise. Jorj thus became a respected professor in this field, and the family relocated to Wizard Island, thereby turning a new page in the annals of House Booth.