House Silversea

House Silversea stands proudly as one of the esteemed noble families in Geldland, tracing their lineage back to the foundation of Rainmore itself. They became Dukes of Regenmeer in the year 355 4E when they received the lands and titles of House Embers after spearheading the Rainmore Rebellion.

Originating from humble beginnings, they once resided in the modest yet charming castle of Silverhall. However, as their power and influence grew, they sought a grander abode befitting their elevated status, leading them to make Flamefort their magnificent stronghold after taking it from House Embers.

At the heart of their heraldry, the emblem of the Silversea House depicts a majestic silver trout poised gracefully upon a lush green field. This symbol signifies their resilience and adaptability, serving as a reminder of their ability to navigate the turbulent currents of politics and governance, much like a fish effortlessly swims through a flowing river. In keeping with noble traditions, the Silverseas adopted a resolute motto, one that encapsulates their unwavering spirit and ambition: "The Silversea Awaits", which resonates with an air of mystery and promise.

Despite their esteemed status, the Silverseas remain a comparatively small family, owing to their modest origins. Lord Lawrence, the current patriarch and head of the family, maintains blood ties solely with Lord William Rumford, emphasizing the close-knit nature of their noble lineage. Connections to House Jaybert appear further from the core family. Additionally, through strategic marital alliances, the Silverseas have forged bonds with the prestigious House Ström, monarchs of Erövring, further solidifying their influence and expanding their network of alliances.

House Silmere is a cadet of House Silversea, created when Duke Harland I of Regenmeer granted Sir Aubert Silversea lands and incomes for his tenure as Minister of Economy. The bond between House Silmere and House Silversea remained strong, despite the absence of marriages between the houses. As trusted allies and kin, they collaborated closely to further the interests of their family and the prosperity of the realm.

## History

### Origin

House Silversea traces its roots to the early days of Rainmore, established by the Embers. Harold Silversea, a Geldlandese merchant, ventured into silver mining and found great success, amassing a considerable fortune. Seizing the opportunity presented by Duke Cyneric Embers' search for landholders, Harold used his newfound wealth to secure a noble title for his family. However, despite the wealth brought by their silver ventures, the Silverseas remained a lesser house in comparison to the Lionheart family's prosperous gold trade and the Argent family's monopoly on the alcohol industry.

As generations passed, the descendants of Lord Harold diligently expanded the influence of the Silversea family. They transformed the humble Silverhall into a thriving hub of commerce and prosperity within the duchy. With their astute business acumen and unwavering determination, they built a formidable trading network that stretched far beyond their lands. The Silverseas ventured into new territories, establishing trade routes that connected Rainmore with distant ports and bustling marketplaces. Their caravans traversed treacherous mountain passes and navigated perilous seas, carrying a diverse array of goods and commodities. From luxurious silks and exotic spices to rare gemstones and fine craftsmanship, the Silversea trading network became renowned for its ability to satisfy the desires of even the most discerning clientele.

Oderhaven, a bustling coastal city renowned for its maritime trade, became a key destination in the Silversea's network. Ships laden with valuable cargo set sail from Rainmore's docks, embarking on perilous voyages across the Vull Strait to reach the shores of Oderstadt. The Silversea merchants forged strong alliances with the influential traders of Oderhaven, such as House Oder, solidifying their position as prominent players in the regional trade landscape.

But the ambitions of the Silversea family did not stop at Oderhaven. Their relentless pursuit of wealth and success led them further, reaching the prosperous city of Aarges. Known for its vibrant markets and thriving commercial activities, Aarges offered new opportunities for the Silverseas to expand their reach and diversify their trade portfolio. Through shrewd negotiations and strategic partnerships, they established a strong presence in the city, securing lucrative deals and gaining access to valuable resources.

### Geldlandese Revolt

During the tumultuous times of the Geldland Revolution, the Silversea family stood firmly by the side of the dukes in their opposition to King Aurel I Greenard. It was in the midst of this fierce conflict that a valiant knight emerged from the Silversea House: Sir Relland Silversea. Legends abound about his extraordinary feats, with tales of him personally slaying Sir Luthor Greenard, the formidable general of the loyalist armies. Sir Relland's bravery and skill on the battlefield made him a revered figure and a source of great pride for the Silverseas. Tragically, Sir Relland met his untimely demise in the heat of battle shortly before the revolution reached its conclusion. His sacrifice, however, only served to deepen the admiration and reverence held by the Silversea family and their allies. Sir Relland became an enduring symbol of heroism and a reminder of the sacrifices made for the ideals they cherished.

In recognition of their unwavering loyalty and contributions to the cause, the Silverseas received a gesture of gratitude from Lord Ulrich Embers. He bestowed upon them the vassalage of the esteemed House Jaybert, a significant honor that solidified their position and expanded their influence within the noble hierarchy. The alliance with House Jaybert not only reinforced their status but also brought forth new opportunities and valuable resources. With their ranks bolstered and their connections strengthened, the Silverseas continued to flourish, contributing to the prosperity and growth of their family and their allies in the post-revolution era.

### Duke Harland I Embers' Government

In this period, Aubert Silversea, the second son of Lord Benedict Silversea, served as Minister of Economy and established House Silmere as a cadet branch of the Silversea family. The Simeres chose to make their home on the newly found Silvery Port, while maintaining their allegiance and vassalage to the main Silversea lineage. Despite their status as a secondary branch, the Simeres contributed to the family's prestige and influence, playing a significant role in the affairs of Rainmore and upholding the traditions and values of their noble heritage. The close ties between House Silmere and the Silverseas fostered a sense of unity and shared purpose, as they worked together to uphold their noble legacy and navigate the intricate web of politics and alliances within the realm.

### Duke Arthur IV Embers' Government

In this period, Lord Clement Silversea assumes the role of the family patriarch for the Silverseas. He makes the decision to marry Joy Rumford, who has recently been widowed by Lord Robert Rumford. Lady Rumford brings with her a son from her previous marriage, a young boy named William, who joins them at Silverhall. Not long after, a joyous event takes place as Lawrence, the only son of Clement and Joy's union, is born into the family, bringing new hope and promise for the Silverseas' lineage.

The bond between William and Lawrence is always strained, as William carries a sense of abandonment from his family and harbors resentment towards Lawrence. However, a turning point comes when William reaches the age of eight and is sent back to the Rumfort to receive an education in managing his late father's business ventures. At the same time, Lawrence is entrusted to Duke Arthur IV Embers' court, where he serves as a page and squire to the duke's heir, Sir Devon Embers.

This intentional separation provides an opportunity for both young men to find their own paths and acquire invaluable experiences that will shape their destinies. While William delves into the intricacies of Rumford's business operations, Lawrence immerses himself in the world of courtly affairs and knightly duties. Through these divergent journeys, they begin to develop their own skills, forge new alliances, and gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of their noble lineage.

During the outbreak of the War of the Lions, Clement Silversea stands as one of the vassals who bravely marches into battle alongside Duke Arthur and Devon. Lawrence, fulfilling his duty as Devon's squire, is also compelled to join the conflict. Together, they face the trials and tribulations of war, bound by their shared allegiance and determination. Over the course of two years, as the war rages on, Devon assumes the role of an elder brother to Lawrence, providing guidance and support, particularly in the wake of their parents' tragic demise on the battlefield. The conclusion of the war not only signifies the end of a tumultuous period but also marks the inception of a profound friendship between these two steadfast comrades.

### Duke Devon I Embers' Government

After their triumphant return to Rainmore, the city is filled with a somber atmosphere as a solemn funeral takes place to honor the brave warriors who sacrificed their lives in the war. The fallen heroes are remembered with deep respect and gratitude, their names forever etched in the collective memory of the realm. In the same heartfelt ceremony, the ascension of Devon to the prestigious title of Duke is celebrated, marking a new era for the Embers lineage. Standing tall amidst the solemnity is Lawrence, representing House Silversea, his presence a symbol of unity and strength.

As Lawrence matures into adulthood, the weight of responsibility falls upon his shoulders. He is summoned to the court, a place of power and intrigue, to assume the distinguished role of Minister of Laws, a position previously held by the esteemed Sir Kurt Embers. Despite his youthful appearance, Lawrence possesses a keen intellect and unwavering determination that sets him apart. The decision to appoint him as Minister of Laws is met with both curiosity and skepticism, as some question his ability to navigate the complexities of governance at such a young age. However, Lawrence's intellect, integrity, and dedication to justice quickly silence any doubts, and he becomes a shining example of leadership.

While Lawrence's professional life flourishes, his personal life remains somewhat uncertain. As a member of a noble house, he receives numerous marriage proposals from various lesser houses in Rainmore, each offering an alliance and the prospect of strengthening their respective lineages. However, Lawrence finds himself yearning for a deeper connection, a love born out of mutual respect and shared values. He yearns for a partner who understands his ambitions and supports his unwavering commitment to justice and the betterment of their realm. Though tempted by the allure of political alliances, Lawrence remains steadfast in his pursuit of a meaningful and fulfilling union.

Following an exhaustive investigation into the intricate web of Lord Devon's financial affairs, meticulously conducted by Lawrence and the astute Lord Jeremy Lamb, the Silversea family embarks on a calculated journey to consolidate their position and secure the unwavering loyalty of the government. Recognizing the importance of alliances and support from influential houses, they deftly navigate the intricate political landscape of Rainmore. Their efforts yield remarkable results as they successfully garner the support of House Holder, renowned for their unwavering loyalty and formidable military might. The Lionheart family, with their deep-rooted traditions of honor and valor, pledges their allegiance to the Silverseas, recognizing the strength and potential of this new alliance. Additionally, Lord Oswald Graywind, a seasoned statesman renowned for his pragmatism and strategic insight, joins their cause, further solidifying their political standing.

Despite their best efforts, the Silverseas encounter an unexpected hurdle in their quest for unification. The Rumford House, bound to them by blood ties, proves elusive in their attempts to secure their allegiance. Though Lawrence's heart aches for the unity of their families, he understands the complexities and diverse motivations that drive each house's decisions. Undeterred, Lawrence and his loyal allies resolve to continue their pursuit of a united front.

With careful deliberation and clandestine meetings, the stage is set for the dramatic climax of their strategy. Lord Lawrence, a seasoned tactician and respected leader, emerges as the fearless spearhead of the rebellion against Lord Devon's reign. A meticulously crafted plan is set into motion, combining stealth, surprise, and calculated timing.

In a daring display of audacity, House Silversea and their courageous allies launch a daring assault on Devon's heavily fortified Flamefort. With meticulous precision, they seize the element of surprise, exploiting weaknesses in the castle's defenses and exploiting internal dissension. In a swift and decisive move, Rudolph, Devon's beloved son and heir, is captured. The Four Swords Guard of Devon is slain in combat, as well as the rest of his family.

The success of the rebellion reverberates throughout Rainmore, leaving the realm in a state of uncertainty and anticipation. The future of the Embers dynasty hangs in the balance, and the fate of Rainmore rests on the delicate threads woven by the Silversea family and their courageous comrades. As the dust settles, the resilient alliance of House Silversea and their trusted allies emerges victorious, ready to shape a new era for Rainmore.

In recognition of their unwavering commitment and exceptional leadership, the noble houses that stood shoulder to shoulder with House Silversea confer upon them the coveted titles of the new Dukes of Regenmeer and Lords of Rainmore. The annals of history forever mark Lord Lawrence as the first non-Embers ruler to ascend to the prestigious position of Lord of Rainmore, signaling the end of a centuries-old dynasty and the dawn of a new era for the realm.

### Duke Lawrence I Silversea's Government

The rise of House Silversea marked a transformative era in the Duchy of Regenmeer, as they emerged as the preeminent power, supplanting the Embers in all aspects of governance. Led by Lord Lawrence Silversea, the family relocated to Flamefort, the historic seat of the Lords of Rainmore, solidifying their status as the new ruling house.

#### Alliances and Wars

In his inaugural year as Duke, Lord Lawrence sought to form a marriage alliance with a noble bride of esteemed lineage. King Harrard II of Erövring responded to his call, offering the hand of his third daughter, Lady Erika, to the Duke. The couple swiftly married upon Lady Erika's arrival, and their union brought forth two sons, Marin and Finley.

Lord Lawrence faced numerous trials and challenges during his rule, most notably the Caister War, which tested the stability of the duchy. Courageously defending his lands against the forces of the Duchy of Langes, the Silverseas emerged victorious, solidifying their reputation as capable leaders.

After the war, House Silversea dedicated efforts to mend relations with noble houses loyal to the Embers. Key members of Devon's cabinet, including Lord Marshall Chambers, were reinstated, fostering continuity and reconciliation. Simultaneously, House Silversea sought to strengthen alliances with influential noble houses in Rainmore. Notably, House Lionheart, Darkwater, and Holder assumed prominent roles within the government, fostering cooperation and shared governance.

#### Crisis and Transition

However, the Silversea government faced a profound crisis with the untimely death of Lord Gresham Lionheart and the mysterious disappearances of Jonathan Holder and Rudolph Embers. These events deeply affected Lord Lawrence, leading to a state of melancholy and vulnerability. To navigate the challenges, Lawrence appointed his half-brother, William Rumford, as the First Counselor, granting him significant authority. As Lawrence's health declined, Lord William enacted swift changes to the cabinet, ostensibly preparing for potential conflicts.

#### Succesion and Regency

Sadly, a few months later, Lord Lawrence peacefully passed away, leaving the realm in mourning. His underage son, Marin, assumed the title of Duke, marking a significant turning point for House Silversea. A regency period commenced under the leadership of William and his cabinet, ensuring the continuity of governance in the Duchy of Regenmeer.

## House Silversea at 364 4E

Duke Lawrence I Silversea, Duke of Regenmeer and Lord of Rainmore.

* His wife, Lady Erika of House Ström.
	+ His firstborn and heir, Marin Silversea.
	+ His son, Finley Silversea
* His half-brother, Lord William Rumford of the Rumfort.
	+ His wife, Lady Anna of House Saint-Clemens
* His uncle, Andreas Silversea.
	+ His wife, Laurel Jaybert.

### Ancestry

* Lord Benedict Silversea, father of Darwell and Aubert Silmere.
* Lord Darwell Silversea, father of Clement.
* Lord Clement Silversea, Lawrence's father. Died during the War of the Lions.
	+ His wife, Joy Silversea. Widow to Robert Rumford.