Le Drake Family

The Le Drake Philosophy

Gules, an Antelope Rampant Ermine

A small, unknown noble family out of Thysan. Hidden among dense woods and rippling streams, they take their name and their philosophy from the great Draco River. Every generation of Le Drakes has had to take to heart the words, "Patientia. Diligentia. Contego." They point to the quiet streams that feed into the Draco River as proof that standing together can accomplish something greater than acting individually. A Drake does not act rashly but quietly grows its strength, and does not raise its hand in offense except in the name of duty or in defense of a friend. They do not take their decisions lightly and act only when they are certain of their goals.

The Le Drakes do not follow any major religion, preferring their own counsel and philosophies to those of the land. They are wary of causing offense but are honest when approached directly. Recently, the youngest generation of Le Drakes has started to take a more active role in the world beyond the forests of Thysan.

Heraldry

A monstrous antelope with serrated horns, huge tusks and the tail of a unicorn adorns their banners. It is often depicted emaciated with a barrel chest, representing the family's self-discipline and pride. Its fierce disposition belies an unwillingness to act rashly, as it would prefer to stand its ground than risk harming another wrongfully. In early lore it was regarded as a ferocious beast on a level with tigers and wolves, as written by Edmund Spenser in The Faerie Queen. Knights of the family have also depicted the Antelope surrounded by caltrops on their shields, a subtle warning that engaging them in combat comes with a heavy price.

The Faerie Queen, Canticle VI

And for to make his powre approued more,
Wyld beasts in yron yokes he would compell;
The spotted Panther, and the tusked Bore,
The Pardale swift, and the Tigre cruell;
The Antelope, and Wolfe both fierce and fell;
And them constraine in equall teme to draw.
Such ioy he had, their stubborne harts to quell,
And sturdie courage tame with dreadfull aw,
That his beheast they feared, as tyrans law,

The Antelope is also associated with musical talent, political shrewdness, fleetness, peace, and sacrifice.