The leading Frankish tribe was the Salians and their kings united all Franks during the latter half of the fifth century. These kings were called Merovingians because they descended from Merovech whom the Franks believed to be son of a divine creature. = Frankish Kingdom 482 = Conquests to 496 = Conquests to 507. The most famous Merovingian king was Clovis who ascended the throne about 482 AD.
Grand Marnier does not go bad if it unopened and stored correctly. It should be kept from direct sunlight. It should also be protected from extreme changes in temperature. (reference-ask.com) (more).
Expired strips do go bad. Usually though if they aren't too far past the expiration date they won't. THere's also one meter out there that when they do expire the meter won't accept the strips at all. That was brought up on here recently and I can't think of which meter it is, maybe someone else can chime in on that.