Politics and the Threat of House Brandeis

The morning’s calm quickly faded as the servants rushed about, preparing the reception hall for the arrival of the envoy from House Brandeis. News of the visit spread quickly through the estate, filling the air with tension. The von Altheim family, a minor noble house with limited wealth and resources, had maintained its autonomy through vigilance and tact, but House Brandeis was a different force altogether. Known for its wealth and ambition, Brandeis held sway over the northern lands, often using intimidation and underhanded politics to advance its interests. Their visit did not bode well.

Lukas’s curiosity piqued as he watched his father, Duke Reinhardt with a stoic demeanor. There was a noticeable weight in Reinhardt’s steps, a heaviness that hinted at years of burden and calculated restraint. Standing beside him, Lukas caught sight of Captain Aric, whose face was carefully neutral but whose eyes betrayed a hint of unease. Clearly, Brandeis wasn’t here for a friendly chat.

“Lukas,” Reinhardt said, turning to him before they entered the reception hall. “Remember what I told you about our family. Our strength lies in our principles, but also in our patience. Today, you’ll see how noble houses maneuver, and I want you to observe carefully. There’s more to this world than swords and strength.”

Lukas nodded, his mind alert, ready to absorb every word and gesture. His own life experience had taught him the importance of power, but here, he would need to understand its subtleties.

They entered the reception hall, where the Brandeis envoy awaited. Two men stood at the center of the room a tall, thin figure clad in dark, lavish robes, and the other, a hulking man with a stern face and an armored chestplate bearing the Brandeis insignia a roaring lion. The former was Simon Brandeis, the younger brother of Duke Aldrich Brandeis, a man known for his cunning and ruthless negotiation skills. The latter was his bodyguard, a silent brute who radiated an intimidating aura.

Simon bowed politely, but his eyes glinted with a sharpness that belied his courtesy. “Duke Reinhardt, an honor to see you again,” he said, his voice smooth but cool. His gaze flicked to Lukas, who stood beside his father. “And young master Lukas—I’ve heard of your recent recovery. House Brandeis sends its well wishes.”

Lukas inclined his head slightly, masking his thoughts with the same politeness he’d seen his father adopt. He could feel Simon’s gaze appraising him, as if searching for weaknesses.

“To what do we owe the pleasure of House Brandeis’s visit, Lord Simon?” Reinhardt asked, his tone civil but distant. He settled into a seat at the head of the hall, gesturing for Simon to join him across the table. Lukas and Captain Aric took positions nearby, silent witnesses to the unfolding conversation.

Simon wasted no time with pleasantries. “As you know, Duke Reinhardt, recent events have left the northern lands somewhat… unstable. House Brandeis, as a steward of these territories, has been concerned about maintaining order.”

“Order?” Reinhardt echoed, his brow furrowing. “The north has always been orderly, as I recall.”

“Indeed, but stability is fragile,” Simon replied smoothly. “Rumors of bandit attacks, minor rebellions these are things that, while manageable, could strain the resources of any house, particularly one as diligent as the von Altheims.”

Lukas observed his father’s reaction closely. Reinhardt’s face remained impassive, but Lukas could sense his father’s mind racing behind that calm exterior. The veiled suggestion was clear Brandeis was positioning itself as a “protector,” hinting that von Altheim might be inadequate without their assistance.

A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.

Captain Aric’s hand subtly tightened on the hilt of his sword as he recognized the implications of Simon’s words. House Brandeis was attempting to undermine the von Altheims’ independence, suggesting that they needed “help” to maintain their borders.

“We’ve managed to maintain order in our lands,” Reinhardt said, his tone unwavering. “My people are resilient, and we’ve handled any incidents ourselves. I see no need for outside interference.”

Simon’s smile tightened. “Ah, of course, Duke Reinhardt. But surely, in such times, alliances become even more valuable. House Brandeis would be willing to… ease your burden. Our forces are well-trained, and our resources are vast. A strategic alliance would benefit us both.”

Lukas caught the glint in Simon’s eyes, recognizing the trap embedded in the offer. Accepting Brandeis’s “help” would be tantamount to surrendering a degree of autonomy, giving Brandeis the opportunity to plant its influence within von Altheim lands.

Reinhardt, however, was not one to yield easily. “I appreciate the offer, Lord Simon, but von Altheim has long valued its independence. My ancestors have defended these lands for generations, and I intend to continue that legacy.”

Simon’s face hardened slightly, the mask of politeness slipping for just a moment. “Independence is a noble ideal, but there are forces greater than ideals, Duke Reinhardt. House Brandeis seeks only the welfare of its neighbors.”

Lukas, sensing the tension escalating, decided to break his silence. “If House Brandeis is concerned with the welfare of its neighbors, perhaps it would be more beneficial to strengthen trade and cooperation in ways that respect each house’s sovereignty.”

Simon’s gaze snapped to him, and Lukas held his stare without flinching. “A wise suggestion from one so young,” Simon replied, his tone almost mocking. “But the wisdom of youth often lacks the patience to foresee all dangers.”

Lukas narrowed his eyes, undeterred. “And sometimes, age blinds one to new possibilities,” he countered, meeting Simon’s challenge directly.

Reinhardt’s lips curved ever so slightly, clearly impressed by Lukas’s intervention. Simon, however, seemed less pleased. His expression hardened, and Lukas could sense that his words had unsettled the Brandeis envoy.

“Perhaps we should discuss matters more… privately, Duke Reinhardt,” Simon suggested, his eyes flicking between Lukas and Captain Aric.

Reinhardt’s gaze sharpened, but he nodded, rising from his seat. “Very well. Captain Aric, see that my son is escorted to his chambers.”

Lukas felt a pang of frustration at being dismissed but understood the necessity. He inclined his head in a show of obedience, though he remained watchful, taking note of every detail.

As they left the hall, Lukas whispered to Captain Aric. “House Brandeis is here to intimidate us however i fear they might want more this time.

Aric nodded, his expression grim. “They want control, Lukas. And they’re pushing harder than before.”

Lukas’s thoughts churned as they walked through the manor’s corridors. House Brandeis’s ambition was clear; they wanted to expand their influence and saw von Altheim as a vulnerable target. Lukas was familiar with this tactic back in the Murim, power hungry factions often exploited minor clans and weakened their influence over time.

But his father, though a skilled strategist, was bound by principles that Lukas didn’t share. If Reinhardt wasn’t careful, Brandeis would eventually chip away at their defenses, using political pressure until von Altheim was forced to submit. It was only a matter of time before they would have to make a choice: fight or lose everything.

Once in his chambers, Lukas sat by the window, contemplating the challenges ahead. If he could understand the broader dynamics, perhaps he could aid his family. He would need to learn more about the political structure of this kingdom, about the allies and enemies House Brandeis might have.

Suddenly, his musings were interrupted by a soft knock. The door opened, revealing Eleanor, his mother. She approached him quietly, her face reflecting both concern and a mother’s quiet strength.

“I heard about the meeting,” she said softly, settling beside him. “House Brandeis has been a thorn in our side for years. Your father does his best to hold them at bay, but their influence grows every year.”

Lukas nodded, absorbing her words. “And they won’t stop until they’ve taken everything.”

Eleanor’s gaze hardened. “Perhaps, but your father is wise. He knows when to bend and when to stand firm. This isn’t our first encounter with Brandeis.”

“Then why haven’t we done more to push them back?” Lukas asked, his frustration showing. “Surely, there must be allies, families willing to help keep Brandeis at bay?”

Eleanor sighed. “Unfortunately, many noble houses fear Brandeis’s power. Few would risk their own positions to stand with us. That’s the reality of nobility the pursuit of self-preservation often outweighs the value of loyalty.”

Lukas clenched his fists, a mix of anger and determination rising within him. “If no one will stand with us, then we must make them respect us,” he muttered. “They must learn that von Altheim is not to be underestimated.”

Eleanor’s eyes softened, recognizing the fierce resolve in her son. “Your father may be more cautious, Lukas, but I see that same fire within you,the strength to protect this family.”

As she left him to his thoughts, Lukas stared out at the distant horizon. House Brandeis might have the advantage for now, but he would find a way to turn the tide. He would master this new world’s politics, its strategies and games, and ensure that his family remained unyielding. The von Altheims would not fall as long as i am alive…