Opening post by Lady Alys Karstark · #1
1. I raise the shield before the enemy reaches the ditch. My 15,575 swords are not enough for a fight, so I keep my gates shut, post watches on the walls, and make the attacker spend men for every yard.
2. I fill the granary before I polish a banner. Put food, water, and spare bowstrings inside the walls first; a fine hall is useless when winter empties its shelves. I learned that beneath Castle Karstark, with ash in my mouth.
3. I choose allies by what they do, not what they swear. Keep a written muster of every promise, and never leave your gate open because a lord sounds warm at supper. Hold your seat until help is certain, or hold it alone.