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When Sonata took the lead of the empire, Halmeldir found it rather strange, considering the prevailing social trends and traditions of succession. But if this is the emperor's will, then so be it. However, when those who opposed the current government appeared, and rumors spread that the throne had been seized by force, everything fell into place, at least for the former officer. First, an opposition emerged led by Duke Laitia, supported not by all opponents of Sonata. This fact contributed to the emergence of resistance in the form of Darkian lords. Halmeldir traveled to different parts of the empire and was well aware of local rulers and other influential people who now headed various forces or influenced them. With this information, the elf was almost without hesitation ready to join the Northerners until the true heir to the throne – Tiary – returned home. True to tradition and his state, Halmeldir considered it his duty to support the prince and help him take his rightful place. Of course, it would be difficult to do this alone, so the officer planned to enlist the support of Nobles Oblige, whose views partially coincided with the goals of the liberation front. He just didn't know how to do it...
During the time spent among supporters of the prince, the elf met many people, improved his combat skills, and mastered the technique of fighting with two swords. But the most important event was not this, nor even meeting Tiary, but meeting Melaria, a warrior from the south. Halmeldir immediately became attached to this purposeful and strong-willed girl, who eventually won his heart. They certainly had common views on current events and what needed to be done to unite the empire and overthrow the usurpers from the throne. Except that the elf was more gentle in some matters. However, all disagreements are quickly forgotten when people are connected by something more than just a common goal. They not only trained together and spent their free time, but also carried out tasks assigned by the organization’s leadership. Most often everything went well and the goals were achieved, but there were also failures, as happened when Melaria was killed by agents of the ruling power. This event left a deep mark on Halmeldir's soul, and since then he has been fighting not only for the prince, law, and justice, but also for lost love, wanting to avenge those responsible.
A few days after the events in the imperial palace
Having returned home while it was still light, Elrina was somewhat surprised to find the marquis alone in the living room. —No, just look at this! —he clutched a fresh issue of the "Reime Chronicles" in his hands. —Have you seen this? —Are you talking about the changes in tax legislation? —to understand what was happening in more detail, Elrina had previously been forced to carefully study an entire list of economic literature; however, she was now slightly more informed about how the system worked in broad strokes. —They've completely lost their minds! What will happen to us now? —I have performed some calculations... with current expenses, we will be on the brink of ruin in less than six months. At best. —The marquise sat down on a comfortable sofa and asked the servants to prepare coffee. Seymour set the newspaper aside and lit a cigarette, gazing thoughtfully out the window. —I remember then... well, at the palace, you said you had some kind of plan... In case the situation became hopeless. —That is true. But I will tell you right away, you may not like what you hear. —Elrina warned him honestly. —Don't drag it out, I beg you. —the marquis pleaded. —As you wish. The only small—no, very small—chance of a successful exit from the current situation lies in investments. Very large investments. —You want to invest our money somewhere? —Seymour asked back. —Not just money, but most of the real estate, lands, absolutely everything that may hold value. A few years ago it would have been easier. I've calculated that, at best, this will be enough for a decent existence by the standards of common people. Naturally, many things will have to be given up. —Wait-wait. —the marquis interrupted her. —Who do you want to give my property to? —Before the palace... event, I managed to speak with Duke Larian Twice. Perhaps you know that he is now also the deputy head of government and owner of "Reimeford". —What?! —the marquis was amazed. —Have you completely lost your mind?! They are taking our money, and you want to bring it to those... yourself— —he became so angry that he couldn't even find the strength to curse properly and fell silent mid-sentence, grinding his teeth. —And do we have any other way out? —Elrina slowly sipped coffee from her cup, observing her husband's reaction. —If they wanted to take our property, no one would have stopped them anyway. You saw it yourself. Moreover, the Duke seemed to me a man of worthy qualities whose opinion is currently important to the Empress, and it would be good to get closer to him this way, don't you think? —They are all the same! Ordinary madmen who invented false ideals for themselves and follow them blindly, that's who they are! —No, Twice made a somewhat different impression on me. Moreover, does Sonata herself strive to leave the imperial palace and give away money from the state treasury? Did Twice, regardless of what measured lifestyle he might lead there, not ban open investments in Reimeford and effectively seize an entire market sector? Where do you think their own huge incomes go? No, they are purposeful and calculating people, but far from madmen. Moreover, he agreed to discuss my proposal even before... what happened at the palace, and that may be a significant point. —You think he remembers such trifles? —Ambitious people like him should pay attention even to such inconspicuous things. If we can become allies even for a while, this chance must not be neglected. —But do you even understand how dangerous this is? —Naturally. In the event of failure, we lose almost everything. But what difference does it make, now or in a couple of months? You should understand this better than I do. It is an incredible risk, but in case of success, we can preserve our family name. —Elrina spoke the last sentence clearly. —Risk, you say? —a spark flashed in the marquis's eyes. —So, you suggest going all-in? —Exactly. —The marquise finished her coffee and returned the cup to the table with a light clink. —...Well, alright. —after some time, Seymour spoke uncertainly. —We shall see if you can justify my trust. —Excellent. —Elrina smiled gratefully. —I will handle the preparation of all documents and bring in several specialist acquaintances; nothing will be required from you except signatures. —Fine-fine. Damn, I can't believe I'm agreeing to this. ...Tell me, do you remember our first meeting? —the marquis suddenly changed the subject, without looking away from the window. —M? Yes, of course. —Elrina nodded. —It seems like it was an eternity ago. —What did you think then, well, about me? I mean, honestly. —Honestly? —she was silent for a moment. —I thought that you were far from the person I would want to bind my life to. —Funny. —Seymour chuckled. —And I decided exactly the opposite for myself, because your family could have helped me pay off debts and save me from ruin back then. ...What is your opinion now? —Now I don't care; there could have been worse prospects. All I think about and all I want is to do everything possible to preserve the dignity of our family. —Heh, well my opinion hasn't changed at all over these years. And now you are just as necessary to me as you were then, and again for the same reason. Isn't it even a bit funny? —Perhaps. —Elrina didn't know if this was a compliment or an insult. In any case, it wasn't very important. —Eh, alright. I still need to make bets at the tournament. Good luck, in general. —The marquis stood in place for some more time, then turned abruptly and left the living room with a determined step.
***
Present time
A fresh sea breeze hit Elrina's face with a sharp gust as she carefully descended from a low railway platform. After a many-hour journey, the city of Eren finally opened before her in all its unusual beauty: clusters of residential and commercial structures of mixed architectural styles ending in a low descent to an extensive port zone; colorful signs of gaming and drinking establishments; plump seagulls flying overhead, diving with long cries toward good-natured feeders; aromas of luxury and debauchery; but mainly, its unnatural noise and bustle, something definitely unlike the measured life of the capital. By the far wall, forming a kind of dead end with a fork leading to one of the city streets, a man in a dark cloak stood leaning. Disheveled hair, graying in places, was covered by a slumped hat; his nose was slightly crooked, the lower part of his face was covered in stubble, and in his free hand he clutched a bottle with obvious contents. Noticing Elrina, the man swayed slightly and took a step forward, stepping out from the shadow of the wall and allowing himself to be blinded by the bright daylight. —Damn sun, curse it. —he grumbled angrily, wiping his watering eyes with a stained sleeve. —I'm also glad to see you, dear. —Elrina put on a friendly smile. —I see you are in your usual proper state. —Nah, this is just for health's sake. —the former marquis chuckled. —You wrote to me about a matter of life and death and asked me to come quickly. Did something serious happen? —Generally, yes. But it's a long conversation. Alright, let's go to my place; I can't stand under this heat any longer. The passing years and various political events that shook the empire undoubtedly left their mark on the Seymours. Numerous lands that were recently at the marquis's disposal were sold off to attract investments into Reime's largest companies, the most prominent of which was the well-known "Reimeford". While this allowed for a decent influx of monetary capital, it was not even close to comparable with the scale of resources available to the family some two decades ago. After selling the family estate, the aging marquis expressed a desire to end the stifling life in the capital and moved to Eren, leaving his spouse to manage the family finances. For Elrina herself, this period became a discovery of new opportunities and broad perspectives, though they required a large volume of knowledge. She had to quickly delve into the latest trends of modern economic theory, follow political events both within the country and beyond its borders, and analyze their influence on the development of the market economy. At least the new era provided certain opportunities for learning, whereas old aristocratic traditions did not particularly allow noble ladies access to sciences—which the latter, same as before, had no great interest in anyway. To Elrina's some surprise, instead of the usual route along the city's central street leading to Seymour's apartments, he hurriedly led her in the opposite direction. After winding through tangled street blocks, the couple finally reached a small three-story building, like a twin to all other buildings in this quiet residential area. —Families of petty traders settle here. —Seymour explained. —Mostly newcomers. So you won't find people here during the day; everyone is at work. The crowd is so-so, of course, but sometimes various travelers stop by. I learn a lot of new things from them! —Like what, for example? —Elrina inquired. —Well, you know... Like, card tricks, or something to mix and where to buy it to relax better. Well, it takes too long to explain, you wouldn't understand anyway. Rummaging in his pockets, the marquis found a rusty set of keys with a grateful sigh, fumbled with the lock, then nudged the heavy door with his shoulder until it finally consented to open with a characteristic long creak of poorly lubricated hinges. The room was dark and damp, smelling of mold and dust, and most of it was filled with unknown crates and bags. —Ah, those are guys preparing for trade for the next day. Dragging from warehouses to the market is too far, but if it's just various small things, it's convenient. —Seymour stated with a knowing look, feeling for the railing of the old stairs. Climbing to the next level, they found themselves in a narrow corridor pierced by numerous doorways. Stopping at one of them, the marquis confidently pushed the door open with his foot. —And here are my temporary quarters. The small room consisted of an untidy bed, a meter-long table made of dark wood of regular shape, a tall wardrobe occupying the near corner of the room, and also a tiny wide-open window of cloudy glass. By the bed, Elrina noticed several empty bottles, and on the table, a dirty plate with remnants of, probably, yesterday's dinner. —It's amazing how you managed to sink this low. —she sighed habitually. —I don't even understand it myself. —Seymour waved his hand. —Actually, they feed reasonably well here. —he added for some reason. —I used to go to restaurants more, but then some problems arose, you know? —And what happened to the last apartment? —Elrina asked calmly. —We calculated together. The sent money should have been more than enough for three months, including normal food, living in a wealthy quarter, and personal leisure. —Calculated, calculated... —the marquis grumbled. —As you can see, we miscalculated. At first everything was going well, but then things just didn't work out. —Admit it, you just gambled it all away again. —Elrina looked closely into her husband's eyes. —I would have won it back! He was stacking the deck! —Seymour confirmed the obvious. —And they even tried to kill me! "Return the debt," they say! I barely escaped with my life. Now I'm sort of lying low. Well, no point in remembering now. —And does anyone among the locals know that an Akkerwald marquis shares their housing? —Yeah, I told them; they even gave me the nickname "marquis". But it seems they don't really believe it. —Seymour shrugged. —And how long have you existed in this... place? A day? Two? A week? Look at what your hobbies have brought you to. I would very much not want to find out upon arrival that you were stabbed in a drunken brawl or froze in an alleyway. —Now don't make me into a helpless child. —the marquis stated offendedly. —I am quite capable of taking care of myself. And as you can see, I've settled in normally. —saying this, he made an elegant gesture with his hand toward the bed. —Go on, sit down; you must be tired from the road. —A little. I don't like tedious journeys very much. —Elrina carefully sat on the edge of the bed. —And what about work? You could have at least tried to get a job at the port for now. —Oh, come off it; no one in my lineage has ever worked. Can you imagine someone like me loading goods onto ships?! —the marquis proudly puffed out his chest. —And anyway, it's easy for you to say, sitting in the capital yourself. You could have come sooner! —I dare suggest, dear, that I am engaged in important, sometimes state work, and not just idling my time in this brothel like some people. I arrived on the first morning train. And, if you remember, your desire to move here was your own considered decision. —Well yes, life near those disgusting lackeys of Sonata in the capital became unbearable for me. Especially after selling the estate. And how could I look my acquaintances in the eye after the betrayal of our aristocratic traditions? Through your fault, I must say! —However, you gave your own consent to this. —Elrina carefully cut him off. —And that allowed us to save ourselves from ruin. And if you had moderated your monetary appetites even a little, everything would be even better. —Well no, I'm used to it, you understand? —the marquis took a few steps around the room. —As for this city, I like it very much here. With money, life is very good here; in elite districts, it's just beautiful, so many different entertainments. But when you don't have any... —Life is hard everywhere without money. One way or another, we cannot afford to live high on the hog as before. —And since when did you start deciding everything for me. —the marquis grumbled. —These are all modern trends, equality, damn it. In my time there was no such lawlessness. Well, nothing; once the legitimate heirs reclaim power and overthrow these usurpers along with your Twice, everything will return to how it was. —Firstly, not mine. —Elrina corrected her spouse. —And secondly, that was our only saving option then. We had to invest almost everything we had into "Reimeford", but in exchange, this allowed us to preserve our lineage. We have a source of good income, as well as certain connections in the government. Yes, and I strongly doubt that even if the aristocracy reclaims power in the country, they will be happy to welcome back someone like us with open arms. So, please, allow me to continue working in the current direction. While we still have the time and opportunities for it. —You've alienated us from other aristocrats, you maintain a friendship with the minions of that vile Sonata; successful work, I must say! Fine-fine, do what you want. —he added hastily, noticing how his spouse's expression began to change. —Politics is a dirty business; I don't wish to get involved in it. By the way, this new hairstyle of yours suits you very much. —he changed the subject, producing an old chair from somewhere and sitting opposite Elrina. —And the new fashion for clothes is generally better than the old dresses. —Really? Thank you. —the marquise smiled slightly. —Although it always seemed the opposite to me. —Though it would have been fine without it too. —he continued, placing his hand on her knee. —To be honest, I missed you terribly. —leaning forward, he whispered. —Is that so? —Elrina feigned exaggerated surprise. —When you see a person every day, it quickly becomes tedious. And only a long separation can make old feelings flare up with new strength! —There's no need for that, dear. You didn't write to me for that reason, did you? You just need money again. —I can demand money myself; after all, I am the head of the family! Well, generally yes, it would be nice. But I really wanted to see you! —That is evident, dear. —Elrina carefully took a sealed envelope from her purse and handed it to her spouse. Seymour greedily opened it and hungrily counted the banknotes. —You know, let's leave this snake-hole as soon as possible. I know a great spot in the center; you'll like it. Wonderful food, excellent drinks, pleasant music, and all on my account! —That is for next month. —Elrina reminded the delighted marquis. —Perhaps it's worth demonstrating moderation and not spending everything in one evening? —Well, I can't let my beloved spouse return home without treating her to dishes and drinks of the local exquisite cuisine! —Better give me a tour of the city. Since I am here. I am curious as to what justifies the increased reputation of "Prosperity" in these parts in recent years.
Revolver Critical damage chance +20% Eagle Eye +(perception)% damage. +50% to accuracy. Roll Immunity to targeted actions until the start of the next turn (active ability). Cooldown: 1 Sprint +2 to movement speed Movement speed is twice as high (active ability) Cooldown: 1 Special Technique — Rapid Fire Additional shot
Merchant +5 to wisdom Cunning -(charisma/2)% item cost. Limit: 30% Investor Investments bring double the income.
Origin: Akkerwald +5000 rumies, +2 SP
Faction: Sonata's Reime Faction +1 to skill points, +2 to ability points, +20 to characteristic points
Beliefs: Traditions +30 to chosen characteristic (perception)
Perk: Dynasty After the character's death, all their property passes to the player's new character
Tiaria is always accompanied by a mysterious woman from Nihon named Yachiru Hakumei, but no one knows who she is or where she comes from, nor what her relationship is with the former prince.
I wanted to support the imperial liberation front; I noticed the description in time. Thank you, we don't need that kind of thing.
Despite the change of power, Arita, who previously was not interested in the political system of the Empire, was only concerned about regaining her speech and improving her skills. The girl took on only those tasks that did not interfere with the activities of the real authorities, since she was not interested in the path of a criminal. Eventually, one day, her abilities, diligence, and excellent resume attracted the attention of Larian Twaise, who offered Arita to become something more than just a mercenary. The girl preferred to agree with the offer and support the interests of the current empress. Despite rumors that Sonata Reim usurped power, Arita saw things differently. In her eyes, instead of waiting for power to fall into unworthy hands by inheritance, the Empress achieved the crown and the respect of followers through her own efforts. During the time that Arita served the legitimate empress, the girl herself didn't notice how much she improved. Now she is less focused on her curse, although she still believes and hopes to be cured of the ailment. And although she continued to communicate through writing materials, now she could perfectly express her thoughts using sign language, which, however, not everyone understands. Also, Arita began to take care of herself, because deep down she believes that she will find happiness not only in combat but also in the face of a strong and reliable knight.
Origin: Half-dragon
Faction: Beliefs damage from spells against self -40% accuracy +30 Perks:
Arandor
Граф Орлов
