Rolf Esbrandt

## Rolf Isch Esbrandt

### Parents

Isch Raejoas Esbrandt (deceased 1100), Glendalia Esbrandt (née Larion, deceased 1002)

## Allegiance

### Title

Lord Rolf Isch Esbrandt, Lord of Ousurferia, Owner and Chief Executive Officer of the Tramontano&Kotts Company

### Occupation

Lord of Ousurferia (978-1087, 109 years), Lord of House Esbrandt (978-1087, 109 years), Owner and CEO of the T&K Co (1042-1087, 45 years)

**Rolf Isch Esbrandt** was a prominent figure in Venthalia, known for his roles as the Lord of Ousurferia, Lord of House Esbrandt, and the founder of the Tramontano&Kotts Company (T&K Co). Born during the reign of Harmen II, Rolf's life was marked by his contributions to the maritime trade industry and his influence on the political landscape of Venthalia.

## Early Life and Family

Rolf was born to Lord Isch Raejoas Esbrandt and Glendalia Esbrandt (née Larion) in the opulent city of Ousurferia, in 913 AV. Raised alongside his younger sister, Chaerie, Rolf was exposed to the vibrant trade culture of Ousurferia from a young age. This early exposure would later shape his path towards becoming a pivotal figure in the maritime trade industry.

In 994 AV, Rolf married Mei Zhaiton, the daughter of an Elmrafel warlord, in an arranged marriage. This union marked the convergence of two influential families, further strengthening their respective positions in the political and economic landscapes of Venthalia. Rolf and Mei had two sons, Josor Rolf Esbrandt (born 1042 AV) and Novack Raejoas Esbrandt (born 1051 AV).

## Lordship and Founding of T&K Co

In 978 AV, Rolf inherited the titles of Lord of Ousurferia and Lord of House Esbrandt from his father, who relinquished them to pursue a full-time position as a Venthalian History professor at the Goldsea Institute. As the Lord of Ousurferia, Rolf played a significant role in shaping the city's economic and political landscape. His leadership saw the city flourish, with the bustling port becoming a hub for traders and merchants from across Venthalia. However, with the prosperity came challenges, particularly from the Confederation of Free Sailors during the Golden Age of Piracy.

The Golden Age of Piracy was a period marked by rampant piracy in the Sentus and Aurem Sea regions, posing a significant threat to the maritime trade routes of the Esbrandts. The CFS, a notorious pirate organization, frequently targeted the Esbrandt's trade ships, causing substantial losses. Rolf, recognizing the need to protect his family's interests, began to devise a plan to safeguard their trade routes. This was the initial impetus behind the founding of the T&K Co.

In 1042 AV, Rolf founded the T&K Co by purchasing and consolidating various maritime trade partners of the Esbrandts. The company was initially formed to trade in the Aurem Sea region, initially within the Free Trade Cities, and later with the rest of Venthalia. However, a significant part of its operations was dedicated to the protection of the Esbrandt's trade routes. Rolf invested heavily in the development of a private navy, known as the Company Fleet, to patrol their trade routes and deter pirate attacks. This move not only ensured the safety of their trade ships but also established the T&K Co as a formidable maritime power.

Under Rolf's leadership, the T&K Co grew to become a dominant force in maritime commerce throughout Venthalia. The company's success was not only due to its robust trade network but also its ability to provide secure and reliable trade routes. This contributed significantly to the wealth and influence of House Esbrandt, solidifying their position as one of the most influential families in Venthalia. Rolf's strategic vision and decisive action during a challenging period in Venthalia's history laid the foundation for the enduring success of the T&K Co.

## Later Life and Mysterious Death

Rolf's later years were marked by the continued success of the T&K Co and the growth of his family's influence. However, in 1087 AV, Rolf passed away under mysterious circumstances at the age of 154. His death sparked a series of events that would further shape the future of House Esbrandt and the T&K Co. Following his death, his eldest son, Josor, inherited his titles and the ownership of the T&K Co. Meanwhile, his younger son, Novack, disappeared without a trace.