Cmdr Melodie Burgsord

### Parents

Cmdr Carter Burgsord (deceased 1089), Miranda Burgsord (née Bruce, deceased 1105)

### Other Family

Carter Burgsord (nephew), Claire Burgsord (niece), Elara Burgsord (niece)

## Allegiance

### Title

Commander Melodie Burgsord, Lord of House Burgsord

### Occupation

Axton Naval Academy Fort Commander (1112-present, 15 years), Captain of the Maelid (1091-1112, 20 years)

### Crew

The Maelid

**Cmdr Melodie Burgsord** is a high-ranking official in the Althean Royal Navy, who runs the Axton Naval Academy, and is the current Lord of House Burgsord. Her military history and noble social status place her as the unofficial highest ranking individual in the Althean Royal Navy.

## Early Life

Melodie Burgsord was born in 1069 AV in the city of Staunton. She was the firstborn child of Commander Carter Burgsord and Miranda Burgsord (née Bruce), the Lord and Lady of House Burgsord. Melodie grew up alongside her two younger brothers, Tomas and Jorj, in the grand Burgsord estate, a symbol of their family's immense wealth and status.

From a young age, Melodie was exposed to the world of nobility and military strategy, her father being a respected figure in the Royal Navy. She also grew up alongside Henrietta Markum, the daughter of Lord Agnes of House Markum, another influential family in Staunton. The two girls, being of the same age and heirs to their respective houses, shared a unique bond, marked by both camaraderie and rivalry. Their competitive spirit was evident even in their childhood games, which often mirrored the political and military strategies they observed in their families.

As they grew older, this friendly competition evolved into a more serious rivalry. Both girls were acutely aware of the expectations placed upon them as the heirs to their respective houses and lordships. This sense of responsibility, combined with their natural ambition, fueled their desire to outdo each other, setting the stage for their future rivalry in the Althean Royal Navy.

## Military Career

In 1086 AV, at the age of 17, Melodie and Henrietta enlisted in the Althean Royal Navy, marking the beginning of their military careers. The pre-existing rivalry between the two girls was further inflamed as they competed for recognition and promotions within the Navy. Their competition was fierce, each pushing the other to excel.

Melodie's strategic acumen and leadership skills led to her rapid rise through the ranks, even though Henrietta always seemed one step ahead. By 1091 AV, she had achieved the rank of Captain and was given command of the Maelid, a state-of-the-art man o’ war that remains the most advanced warship in the Althean Royal Navy to this day. Henrietta, not to be outdone, also climbed the ranks, but Melodie always seemed to be one step ahead.

In 1103 AV, Melodie attained the rank of Commander, a testament to her exceptional service and dedication to the Navy. However, in 1112 AV, she made the decision to suspend her sailing duties on the Maelid and took up the position of Fort Commander at the Axton Naval Academy, her alma mater. This decision was seen by some as a testament to her commitment to nurturing the next generation of Navy officers, while others saw at is as cowardice, following the shocking defection of Cmdr Henrietta Markum to the Confederation of Free Sailors in 1111 AV.

## Axton Naval Academy

As Fort Commander, Cmdr Burgsord has been instrumental in expanding and revitalizing the Axton Naval Academy. She runs the Academy with the same discipline and precision as she ran her ship, ensuring that new enlistees are trained to the highest naval standards.

Her efforts have not only increased the prestige of the Academy but have also further solidified her status within the Navy. Despite her official rank of Commander, Melodie's influence and the respect she commands have elevated her to the functional position of the highest-ranking official in the Althean Royal Navy.

## Family

Following the death of her father in 1089, Melodie inherited the title of Lord of House Burgsord. Despite never marrying or having children, she has successfully maintained the prominence of her House in Staunton's political and social circles. Her leadership has been marked by a keen understanding of political strategy and a commitment to upholding the honor and reputation of her House. Her role as the head of the House has not only made her a key figure in Staunton's nobility but also a respected leader among her family members.

Melodie's younger brother, Tomas, has been a steadfast supporter of his sister throughout her military career and leadership of House Burgsord. Tomas married Isolde Hawkins, daughter of Lord William Hawkins of Ousurferia. Together, they have two children, a son named Carter, named after their grandfather, and a daughter named Claire. Carter, following in his aunts's footsteps, also serves in the Althean Royal Navy as first mate of the Black Vengeance under Cpt Lysandra Stone, further strengthening the influence of House Burgsord.

Jorj, the youngest of the Burgsord siblings, chose a different path. He married Flora Booth, daughter of Killian Booth, lord of the Dwarven noble House Booth family of Rockbridge. Together, they have one child, a daughter named Elara. Jorj pursued a career in academia and is now a respected professor at the Goldsea Institute under his brother in law, Professor Bick Booth, specializing in Althean Naval history. His scholarly contributions have added a unique dimension to the reputation of House Burgsord, showcasing the family's commitment not just to military and political power, but also to intellectual pursuits.

Under Melodie's leadership, House Burgsord has continued to thrive. Her family's wealth and status, combined with her own military achievements, have made Melodie a formidable figure in Staunton. She typically answers directly to Lord Darroll Tirone and Queen Leonora II, further highlighting her influence and importance. Despite the diverse paths they have chosen, the Burgsord siblings remain united in their dedication to their House and the Kingdom of Althea, each contributing in their own way to the legacy of their family and their kingdom.