Lawrence Silversea (U-50)

Lawrence I Silversea, Duke of Regenmeer and Lord of Rainmore, is a nobleman hailing from the city of Rainmore in the region of Geldland. Lawrence's rise to the esteemed title of duke came about through a tumultuous rebellion against the former duke, Devon I Embers. The upheaval led by Lawrence was marked by a violent struggle, resulting in the tragic deaths of Madge Darkwater and her two daughters, Viktoria Embers and Elisa Embers. Since assuming power, Silversea's governance has been plagued by instability, largely due to his frail health.

Lawrence is the sole son of the late Clement Silversea and Joy Silversea (previously Rumford). Born from his mother's second marriage, Lawrence shares a half-brother named William Rumford. His union in matrimony is with Erika Ström, a princess hailing from the Kingdom of Erövring. The couple has been blessed with two children, Marin Silversea and Finley Silversea.

Following the demise of Gresham Lionheart and the mysterious disappearances of Rudolph Embers and Jonathan Holder, Lawrence bestows upon his half-brother William the esteemed position of First Councilor of the Cabinet. As William gradually accumulates more control within the government, Lawrence's health steadily declines, eventually leading to his passing. In an attempt to ensure a smooth transition of power, Lawrence decrees that his son and heir, Marin, should be under the regency of the entire cabinet. However, William and Lord Oswald Graywind manipulate the will, altering its contents to grant themselves power and authority.

## Character

Lawrence possesses an average height, which, combined with his slender build, emphasizes his lack of physical strength. His complexion, fair and almost ethereal, beautifully complements the hallmark silvery-white hair that runs in the Silversea family. His hair, voluminous and abundant, is meticulously styled in an elegant manner, gracefully swept back from his forehead. A well-groomed beard adorns his chin, exuding a sense of meticulous care, while a neatly trimmed mustache adds a touch of refinement to his overall appearance.

When it comes to attire, Lawrence's wardrobe reflects the colors of his noble house, prominently featuring shades of green and silver. He often dons garments that bear these hues, exuding an aura of regal sophistication. A long cloak of deep, dark green, adorned with intricate silver details, elegantly drapes from his broad shoulders, bestowing an air of authority upon his figure. During formal and official events, Lawrence proudly wears the circular crown befitting his esteemed title as a duke. However, in more casual settings, he prefers to leave his head unadorned, showcasing a sense of simplicity and approachability.

In his youth, Lawrence was a man of great ambition and unwavering determination. Despite hailing from a humble noble family, he defied societal expectations and achieved a coveted position within the cabinet. His relentless drive and strategic acumen allowed him to navigate the political landscape, carving a path to influence and power. However, since ascending to his position of authority, Lawrence's disposition has undergone a notable transformation. He has become more passive, susceptible to the influence of others, and easily swayed by persuasive voices. His fragile health has played a significant role in this change, eroding his once fervent interest in political affairs. Instead, he has willingly relinquished control, entrusting the intricate workings of governance to his trusted First Councilor, a decision rooted in a desire for stability and the preservation of his well-being.

In the complex tapestry of Lawrence's persona, his physical attributes, sartorial choices, and evolving character intertwine to create a figure both enigmatic and intriguing. As he navigates the intricate web of power and intrigue, his legacy will be shaped by the delicate balance between his fragile health, the manipulations of those around him, and the enduring spirit of his noble lineage.

## History

### Youth

Lawrence was born as the sole son of Lord Clement Silversea in the year 321 of the Fourth Era. He entered the world as a member of the Silversea House, a relatively modest noble family hailing from the town of Rainmore. His mother's previous marriage to the late Lord Robert Rumford bestowed upon Lawrence an older half-brother named William Rumford.

The relationship between William and Lawrence was never completely tranquil, as William felt abandoned by his family and held a lingering resentment towards Lawrence. The tension between them began to dissipate when William reached the age of eight and was sent back to the Rumford Estate to receive training in the management of his father's business affairs. Meanwhile, Lawrence embarked on a journey of education under the guidance of Adam Silmere, the esteemed administrator of the Silversea Estate, focusing on legal and economic matters.

At the age of nine, Lawrence was dispatched to the court of Duke Arthur Embers, where he would serve as the second squire to the heir, Devon Embers. Lawrence viewed Devon as the older brother figure he had longed for, but never found in William. Their bond quickly flourished, nurtured by a foundation of mutual respect and admiration. However, Solomon Argent, their fellow squire, failed to forge a similar connection with Devon, displaying a persistent animosity towards the young Lawrence.

In the year 329 of the Fourth Era, the War of the Lions erupted, compelling both Lord Clement and Lawrence to answer the call as standard-bearers for House Embers. Despite their involvement, neither Devon nor Lawrence experienced significant combat, their participation limited to the Battle of Meris. Tragically, both their parents met their demise on the battlefield: Lord Clement fell during the fierce Battle of Talavas, while Lord Arthur perished in the harrowing Battle of Altivia. In the wake of these losses, Devon assumed command of the Rainmore armies, achieving several victories in skirmishes where Lawrence fought valiantly by his side.

As the war drew to a close in the year 331 of the Fourth Era, the two comrades returned to their respective homes, assuming the mantle of leadership within their families. Lawrence stood unwaveringly beside Devon during his coronation as duke, and their enduring bond was further solidified as Lawrence accompanied Devon in his union with Madge Darkwater, witnessing the celebration of their wedding.

### Devon's Government

In the year 330 of the Fourth Era, Rainmore mourned the passing of Lord Thommard Argent, a respected and influential figure in the realm. His death left a void in the political landscape, specifically the position of Minister of Laws in Lord Devon's cabinet. Initially, the duty was entrusted to Sir Kurt Embers, Devon's uncle. However, it was not long before the young and promising Lawrence reached the age of maturity, and Lord Devon extended an invitation for him to assume the role, despite his tender years.

As Lawrence embraced his new responsibilities, his charismatic presence and skillful decision-making drew attention from various quarters. He received numerous marriage proposals from minor noble families in Rainmore, eager to forge advantageous alliances. However, Lawrence found little satisfaction in the prospect of marrying into a family of no importance.

During his tenure, Lawrence pursued a progressive approach to governance. He fostered a stable and lenient system, particularly when dealing with minor offenses, opting for rehabilitative measures over harsh punishments. Additionally, he sought to diminish the influence of the Gray Department, a secretive and often oppressive organization that wielded significant power within the government. Lawrence's initiatives garnered admiration from fellow ministers such as Lord Jeremy Lamb and the Legate Arnold. However, there were dissenting voices, including those of Marshall Chambers and Sir John Highsea, who doubted Lawrence's suitability for the cabinet, perceiving his ambition as a potential threat. Lord Devon, recognizing Lawrence's accomplishments, chose to stand by his protégé, defying the reservations of his advisers and allowing Lawrence to pursue his innovative plans.

Amid Lawrence's rise to prominence, Rainmore faced a critical challenge in the form of the War of Ramash. The sultanate, driven by territorial ambitions, launched an audacious invasion against the city. Given his lack of military experience, Lawrence, along with other political leaders, took refuge within the walls of the Flamefort. The outcome of the conflict hung in the balance, but through the bravery and tenacity of the Geldlandese men, Rainmore emerged victorious, repelling the invader's advance.

Several years later, Lawrence found himself summoned to a clandestine meeting by Jeremy Lamb, the Minister of Economy. Lord Lamb voiced concerns about potential embezzlement within the government, with suspicions centering on Lord Gresham Lionheart, the influential First Councilor. Troubled by the revelation, Lawrence took it upon himself to investigate Gresham's actions discreetly. To his dismay, the trail of corruption led directly to Lord Devon himself, shaking Lawrence's sense of loyalty and friendship. Complicating matters further, he discovered that the embezzled funds were finding their way into the hands of Stanford Godwind, a claimant to the Stellungian throne.

Struggling with the moral implications of his findings, Lawrence sought counsel from trusted confidants. Lord Lamb stressed the importance of meting out justice, emphasizing Lawrence's duty as Minister of Laws. Meanwhile, Legate Arnold invoked the divine will, urging Lawrence to honor the gods' call for righteousness. Ultimately, it was Lord Oswald Graywind who stepped forward, armed with vital information regarding the stolen funds. He assured Lawrence of his unwavering support and impartiality.

Convinced by the collective wisdom of his allies, Lawrence resolved to pursue a peaceful deposition. His first task was to secure the backing of influential houses within Rainmore. He successfully gained the support of House Lionheart and House Holder, bolstering his cause significantly. However, due to strained relations with his half-brother William, Lawrence could not count on his assistance, though William pledged to remain neutral. In a delicate negotiation, Lawrence persuaded Lord Sullivan Darkwater to distance himself from the impending conflict, ensuring the safety of Darkwater's beloved granddaughter, Madge, and her children.

In the year 355 of the Fourth Era, the stage was set for Lawrence to execute his plan. The gates of the Flamefort swung open under the concerted efforts of Lionheart's and Holder's forces, granting them entry. Inside the fortress, a fierce and brutal battle raged, pitting the Guard of the Four Swords against the disorganized attackers. Meanwhile, Lawrence stood resolute outside the castle walls, alongside Lord Graywind, their presence signifying unity and purpose.

After the battle had concluded, Jeremy Lamb urgently summoned Lawrence to the inner chambers. There, the grim reality of the attack became apparent as Lord Lionheart presented Lord Devon's son, Rudolph Embers, and the gravely wounded Sir John Highsea, captain of the Four Swords. Lord Benedict Holder arrived, bearing the bruised bodies of Madge Darkwater and her two daughters, Viktoria Embers and Elisa Embers. The nobles informed Lawrence that Lord Devon had fled during the tumultuous battle, leaving a void of leadership.

A tense moment ensued as the question of succession loomed. It was evident that Rudolph Embers could not ascend to the throne, and the Embers family needed to be discredited. Although none of the contenders—Holder, Lionheart, or Silversea—had a legitimate claim, their ambition for power was palpable. However, it was Lord Graywind who emerged, demanding that they make way for the true leader: Lawrence. Holder and Lionheart hesitated briefly but eventually conceded, realizing that even without the title of duke, they would maintain significant influence within the cabinet.

A few weeks later, Lawrence was crowned as the new duke, symbolizing a new era in Rainmore's history. In a calculated move, Rudolph Embers was left as a political prisoner under the custody of the Silversea family, serving as a deterrent should Lord Devon ever attempt to return. The message was clear: Rainmore had embraced change, and Lawrence was ready to lead the realm into an uncertain future.

### Lawrence's Government

With the dawning of a new era, House Silversea ascended to become the preeminent power in the Duchy of Regenmeer, supplanting the Embers in all aspects of governance. The family relocated to the Flamefort, the historic stronghold of the Lords of Rainmore, solidifying their position of authority.

In the early stages of his reign, Lord Lawrence embarked on a quest to find a suitable noblewoman to be his wife and consort. The Kingdom of Erövring responded to his search, as King Harrard II himself offered his third daughter, Lady Erika Ström, to the duke. Without delay, Lady Erika arrived in the city, and she and Lord Lawrence were promptly wedded. Soon thereafter, they were blessed with the birth of their son, Marin Silversea, and later welcomed another child, Finley Silversea.

The onset of Lord Lawrence's rule proved to be a challenging period for the city. Within the first year of his term, the stability of Regenmeer was disrupted by the Caister War, which necessitated Lawrence's defense of his lands against the forces of Duke Gael I Salt. Despite the complexities of the conflict, Lawrence displayed strategic prowess and achieved a remarkable victory, firmly establishing his status as the new duke.

Lawrence dedicated several years to mend relations with the nobles who had remained loyal to the Embers. Certain members of Devon's cabinet, such as Marshall Chambers, were reinstated in their former positions. Additionally, Lord Lawrence sought to foster alliances with the prominent houses of Rainmore, granting them key roles within the government. House Lionheart, Darkwater, and Holder were bestowed significant positions in the cabinet. To further solidify loyalty, Lawrence revitalized the Guard of the Four Swords, which attracted sons from the Argent, Walden, Hammon, and Glassoway houses, who sought knighthood and advancement. However, this incarnation of the Guard was later regarded as one of the least distinguished in its history, predominantly composed of young individuals driven by the pursuit of fame and glory.

Furthermore, Lord Lawrence undertook a complete reorganization of the cabinet. Gresham Lionheart retained his esteemed position as First Counselor, alongside Arnold representing the Church of the Twenty-Two, and Marshall Chambers, who remained Minister of War to assuage his concerns. Jeremy Lamb eventually departed from his role as Minister of Economy to serve as an ambassador in the Kingdom of Stellung, making way for Andreas Silversea, Lawrence's uncle, to assume the position. Benedict Holder was appointed Minister of Iron, while his brother Jonathan Holder became the Minister of Laws. Sullivan Darkwater reclaimed his previous position as Minister of the Sea, following Lord Devon's appointment of Sheamus Marnos. The Guard of the Four Swords was led by Captain Elmord Walden, with Blake Argent, Rowan Hammon, and Winton Graywind completing the ranks.

Throughout these years, Lord Lawrence's health underwent a severe decline. He relied on a cane to walk and constantly required medication. He frequently suffered from powerful coughing fits, and his hands trembled uncontrollably. Consequently, he was unable to attend the meetings of the influential League of Twelve, with Lord Gresham Lionheart attending on his behalf.

Following the demise of Elmond Warden and Randall Glassoway, Edric Marnos and Winton Graywind were selected as their respective replacements.

Lord Lawrence's condition worsened significantly upon the untimely passing of Lord Gresham in the year 365 of the Fourth Era. A few weeks later, Jonathan Holder and Rudolph Embers mysteriously disappeared, causing great distress for the duke as Lord Devon no longer possessed the means to impede their return. Recognizing Lawrence's distressed state, his confidant Oswald Graywind advised him to bring his brother William Rumford into the government, assuring him that only William could restore order. Despite initial hesitations, Lawrence ultimately summoned William, appointing him as the First Counselor, while Oswald assumed the provisional role of Minister of Laws.

As Lawrence's illness progressed, he became increasingly detached from the affairs of governance, delegating the majority of responsibilities to William and the cabinet. Upon receiving news of the attack on Caister Keep, allegedly orchestrated by Duke Gael I Salt, Lawrence's condition deteriorated even further. With the return of Oliver Rumford and Alphonse Lionheart, who reported the refusal of support from Lord Ferdinand II Goudenport, Lawrence found himself confined to his bed, his strength waning.

Ultimately, Lord Lawrence found himself unable to carry on, fearing that death would claim him imminently. In the presence of his family, William, Oliver, Oswald, Arnold, Sir Edric Marnos, and Gilbert, the court physician, Lawrence bid them a poignant farewell. After his family and Sir Edric departed, Lawrence entrusted William with the task of recording his last will. Lawrence desired that the entire cabinet collaborate in the education of Marin, understanding that only through unity could they overcome the city's adversaries. However, William altered the will, designating himself as regent on paper. Lord Oswald, privy to William's intentions, attested to the will's authenticity. With great effort, Lawrence affixed his signature to the document, his vision failing, before passing away peacefully.

### Legacy

The news of Lord Lawrence's passing spread throughout the land, and his people gathered to bid him farewell in a magnificent funeral ceremony. The event was attended by prominent figures, including Duke Ferdinand Goudenport and even King Edvard VI of Stellung, showcasing the respect and influence that Lawrence commanded.

Amidst the solemn atmosphere, the coronation ceremony of Marin Silversea took place. It was during this momentous occasion that William and Oswald stepped forward to announce Lawrence's final will, which designated William as the regent to govern in Marin's stead. The revelation stirred the court, and whispers filled the air as the implications of this decision sank in.

Legate Arnold, a trusted advisor who had been present during Lawrence's last moments, seized the opportunity to voice his concerns openly. With unwavering determination, Arnold accused the nobles assembled in front of the entire court, hoping to halt the coronation and reveal any hidden agendas. His intent was to safeguard the future of the realm and ensure that Lawrence's wishes were honored. Sir Oliver and other knights were expected to intervene and support Arnold's plea for justice.

To address the growing tension and validate Lawrence's final will, Franz Volkert and Adam Silmere, esteemed legal authorities, were summoned to verify the authenticity of the document. With their expertise, they examined every word, signature, and seal, concluding that the will was indeed genuine and legally binding. Their confirmation solidified William's position as regent and left no room for dispute.

In a swift turn of events, the weight of Arnold's accusations against the nobles led to his arrest. Acting under William's orders, the guards took Arnold into custody, signaling the swift and decisive action of the new regent. A sense of unease and uncertainty permeated the court, as the fate of the outspoken Legate hung in the balance.

After a brief period of deliberation and a trial conducted with utmost care, Arnold was ultimately sentenced to death. His execution, carried out a couple of days later, sent shockwaves through the realm, emphasizing the authority and resolve of the new regime. In his place, Legate Hadrian, a trusted confidant of William, assumed the mantle, ready to support and advise the regent in the challenging times ahead.

In the midst of these tumultuous events, Lord William made a peculiar request to Gilbert, the court physician, who had faithfully served House Silversea for years. William asked Gilbert not to bury Lawrence's skull but to entrust it to him instead. Moved by his lord's plea, Gilbert agreed and carefully handed over the skull, a symbol of Lawrence's wisdom and legacy.

To honor his brother's memory and the ideals he held dear, Lord William decided to treat Lawrence's skull with reverence. The skull was meticulously bathed in silver, a precious metal symbolizing strength and purity, and then placed prominently in William's office. It served as a constant reminder to the regent of the duty he bore, to maintain the hard-earned peace that Lawrence had tirelessly worked to establish.

Thus, as the regency began and the legacy of Lord Lawrence Silversea lived on, the realm braced itself for a new chapter, where William's leadership and the guiding spirit of his brother would shape the destiny of the land.

## Silversea's Court

### First Counselor

* Gresham Lionheart, from 355 to 365 4E.
* William Rumford, since 365 4E.

### Minister of Laws

* Jonathan Holder, from 355 to 365 4E.
* Oswald Graywind, since 365 4E.

### Minister of Economy

* Jeremy Lamb, from 355 to 357 4E.
* Andreas Silversea, since 357 4E.

### Minister of War

* Marshall Chambers, from 355 to 365 4E.
* Victor Lionheart, since 365 4E.

### Minister of Iron

* Benedict Holder, from 355 to 364 4E.
* Samuel Smith, since 365 4E.

### Guard of the Four Swords

#### Sword of the North

* Sir Elmord Walden, from 355 to 364 4E.
* Sir Edric Marnos, since 364 4E.

#### Sword of the South

* Sir Rowan Hammon, from 355 to 365 4E.
* Sir Oliver Rumford, since 365 4E.

#### Sword of the East

* Sir Randall Glassoway, from 355 to 363 4E.
* Sir Winton Graywind, from 363 to 365 4E.

### Other courtiers

* Sir Landyn Hayward, captain of the guard.
	+ Dane, Harlin, Rolford, Willmot, Zach... guards.
* Adam Silmere, castellan of Silverhall.
* Percival Greenmore, Lord Treasurer.
* Garth Cross, steward.
* Sir Aaron Sardar, master-at-arms.
* Gardwell Griffith, master of horse.
* Gilbert, physician.
* Hadden, master of kitchens.
* Mason Hammon, smithmaster.
* Ged Argent, squire.
* Lionel Darkwater-Lionheart, squire.
* Rudolph Embers, ward and hostage.
* Maher Ramash, ward and hostage.
* Bellboy, jester.