Two days ago, Thaddeus received the key and deed to Brown’s capital manor, county, and estate. The day after the Mythical Guild ball, Thaddeus and Sabrina moved into the estate, mainly out of spite. And partly because the emperor gave him permission to own a house in Redwood’s noble district.

As they first arrived the waitstaff stood atop the steps to greet them. The staff was all impeccably dressed and eager to make a good impression. Thaddeus, ever gracious, extended his hand to each of them, but the bowed or curtsied. Thaddeus realized he commuted a faux pas.

"I apologize," Thaddeus said, a hint of embarrassment in his voice. "I'm new to all of this, and I hope you can forgive my mistake."

The head butler, a distinguished older gentleman with an air of refined grace, stepped forward and bowed deeply. "Your Grace, there is no need for apologies. We are here to serve you and Thaddeus gladly guide you through any customs or practices you wish to observe."

Hearing his British accent reminded him of Alfred. The NPC looked just how he imagined him. Tall, refined, slender, white-haired, with a thick white mustache.

Sabrina's soft laugh eased the tension, and her eyes sparkled with mirth as she looked at Thaddeus. "It seems we are in capable hands."

The waitstaff seemed to warm to them instantly, only a few little disgruntled at their apparent lack of decorum.

“Would like a tour, sir?” the old butter asked.

Thaddeus nodded affirmatively.

“Very well, sir. Please follow me?”

Indeed, the newly acquired Brown Manor bore a striking resemblance to an 18th-century London townhouse. Its tall, narrow structure stretched upward with multiple stories, each adorned with large sash windows framed by ornate stonework. The red-brick facade, lined with white cornices and decorated with elaborate ironwork, lent the house an air of timeless elegance.

Inside, the tall ceilings and grand staircase were reminiscent of the Georgian style, with ornate moldings and chandeliers adorning the spacious entrance hall. Rich wooden paneling covered the walls of the stately drawing rooms, while large fireplaces provided warmth and a focal point for gatherings.

The more Thaddeus and Sabrina explored the house, the more they grew to appreciate its architectural beauty. They could see the potential behind the cluttered furnishings and gaudy decor, and they were determined to bring out the true character of the home.

“This house is incredible,” Sabrina admired.

“It’s like a museum,” agreed Thaddues

From the curated interior to the historical architectural features the hardwood floors and delicate frescoes look like they belonged in a museum. The antique candelabra, mirrors, and furniture looked like prime material for Antique Roadshow. Fresh flowers adorned the tables in every room. Thaddeus felt the manor radiated a warmth and sophistication that was foreign to him.

After the tour, the butler asked them if they care for coffee or tea. Thaddeus opted for coffee and Sabrina Tea.

“I feel like a real Lady, like Lillian,” Sabrina laughed.

“I’m more like Owen. I feel like a poser,” Thaddeus said discontent.

“We can live in your cabin when we get back. It’s fine. As I told you earlier, I’ll be happy anywhere.”

“No, I need to get used to this. I finally understand how my villagers view nobles.”

“Pompous and bigoted?

“Not really, more socialites. Nobles are more concerned with society than the mundane day-to-day. They’re prone to building their social status than with their own hands.”

Thaddeus missed the feel of wood and leather in his hands. He missed pounding his hammer against a hot ingot of iron. As his thoughts turned to Ironwood and Woodhaerst, he thought about the deed he now held.

‘Alfred, tell me again about Brown’s property that I control?’

“Yes, sir. Brown County was a sizable estate. The estate oversaw four baronies and a Level 4 town, the county seat. While the Browns managed the county, they held sole control of the town. The Brown’s rural manor, or should I say your manor, is in Brownwood Town. Brownwood has several farms, pastures, a marketplace, vineyards, and a renowned winery.”

“Alfred, I relocate the deed property to Ironwood?”

“You may, but for a cost of 235 gold.”

“Fine, move the marketplace, vineyards, and winery to Ironwood. Send the livestock to Woodhaerst. Use the Brown’s bank account.”

“Done, sir.”

Hearing the confirmation, Thaddeus grinned. He finally got those bastards back.

Thaddeus knew the Browns would not take their defeat lightly. More than likely, they were already scheming preparing to strike back.

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But today, the Browns would not overshadow his happiness. He would fight fire with fire, he was confident in his ability to overcome anything they might throw his way.

For now, though, the Manor was his, a symbol of his victory. It marked a transition for him in the game and he embraced it for as long as it lasted.

Thaddeus and Sabrina spent the rest of the day settling in and walking in the garden. That evening they share a fancy meal. Sitting on opposite ends of the table they did their best to talk and eat mannerly, laughing at their mistakes. The house chef served a five-course meal of expensive meat and sweets.

After dinner, Thaddeus and Sabrina retreated to the drawing room, where a fire crackled in the hearth. They settled into plush armchairs, facing each other, glasses of fine Brownwood wine in hand.

"It's hard to believe all this is mine now," Thaddeus said, looking around at the room filled with beautiful art and antique furniture.

“It's the people in a home that make it special, not the things,” Sabrina replied with a smile, her eyes reflecting the flames.

Thaddeus reached over and took her hand, stood up, and kissed her. The kiss was fierce and passionate, their tongues danced intensely. Ablaze with pleasure, they slowly moved to the rug by the fire. They tenderly cared for each other individually, showing affection, before exerting themselves. The night was wild and passionate, fierce, and enjoyable.

Thaddeus’ tall and muscular half-bearkin frame pressed hard against Sabrina’s fragile human body. They looked like two characters on a romance novel. Their romantic tryst was orgasmic and dreamy. When they emptied all their energy, they fell asleep on the rug.

Thaddeus woke up a few times in the night, checking to see if I had been merely dreaming, but every time I raised my hand to the left, Sabrina’s warm body told him it was all too real.

In the morning, Thaddeus saw he received a new message. Vakdraen thanked him for the marketplace and winery.

Soon, Dwarvish wine would be for sale. Thaddeus knew he could increase the price point, just by advertising it at Dwarvish Wine. Everyone knew Dwarves made the spirits. He wondered if they could also make brandy. Brandy was distilled wine and a popular after-dinner cocktail across empires.

After breakfast, the house staff prepared for Thaddeus and Sabrina’s small housewarming. They wanted the celebration to be elegant but unpretentious, a reflection of who they were. The guest list included close friends. Huey, Lillian, and Owen, as well as a few select others.

Thaddeus and Sabrina answered questions as the staff, moved methodically, setting tables, dusting, and placing trays of food strategically around the first floor. The staff was efficient and experienced.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, it was time for the housewarming to start, Thaddeus and Sabrina were finished getting dressed. Thaddeus wore a blue, double-breasted suit. Over his suit jacket, he wore his Baron white sash, which had arrived a few days ago. Sabrina wore a pastel yellow floor-length gown with a sweetheart neckline

"You look beautiful!” Thaddeus said seeing her for the first time in her outfit. “Are you ready for our home debut?”

"Yes, I'm sure this party shall be wonderful,” Sabrina smiled.

"Then should we greet our guests?" Thaddeus asked reaching out and lock elbows.

Sabrina and Thaddeus stood to the side of the front door. As the guest entered, Thaddeus and Sabrina would personally greet them.

When the guests entered, they were treated to the melodious sounds of a player quintet began playing. After the greeting, the guest continued to the hall to socialize.

After all the guests had arrived, Thaddeus got their attention.

"We are honored to have you with us," Thaddeus told them. "Your friendship has been appreciated."

With that, Thaddeus led everyone to the dining hall. Soon laughter filled the grand dining room as stories were shared and toasts were made. The feast prepared by the Estate's renowned chef was a culinary delight, each dish a testament to the celebration of new beginnings.

As the guests sat, they marveled at the expensive table setting which had the Brown’s crest a brown maple tree with roots that circled upward to make a circle. A seven-course dinner was served, Thaddeus watched as the guest savored each bite as the overflowing juicy meat and its soft texture, brought many smiles. Good food and plentiful wine made for great conversation.

Yet, even as they celebrated, the shadow of the Browns lingered.

…

In the shadows of discontent, a plot was hatching, festering like a wound that would not heal. The Brown family, once a symbol of grace and nobility, was now reduced to whispers and desperation. The court's judgment had left them bereft and seething with anger.

Across town, in a dimly lit room filled with the scent of smoke and brandy, the remnants of the

The Brown family gathered, their faces etched with bitterness and anger.

“Damn, those Travelers, that courtroom was a shame,” Earl von Brown complained slamming his fist on

“Worse, our friends have all turned their backs on us?” Lady von Brown cried.

"We must act, and we must act now. Thaddeus has not only disgraced us but robbed us of our heritage. We must reclaim what is ours, by any means necessary." The dowager urged.

“Let’s join forces with the fallen nobility. There is strength in numbers,” countered the lady.

“Never! They were the ones that encouraged us to sue. And when we lost, they turned their back on us, acting as if the whole scheme was not their idea. We must take care of this on our own! If we can gain access to our accounts well be alright,” encourage the Earl.

“Have you forgotten those baronies no longer pay us taxes?” How can we afford to live with no income?” complained dowager.

“How can we afford to clothe our daughters? Suitable suitors have all fled,” Lady von Brown.

"We cannot allow this to go unanswered," the Earl hissed, his eyes narrowing. "That half-breed has taken our estate, humiliated us, and now he flaunts his success in our very home!"

The room was filled with murmurs of agreement, the wound to their pride festered.

"He must be stopped," the dowager said, her voice filled with venom. "And I know just the person to do it. Your father had a man he pay for from time to time when he needed things outside the law done. Go to the Bloody Ogre tavern, outside the capital. Ask for a man by the name of Rabbit.”

“All right Mother, I’ll leave now. I’ll ask this Rabbit to capture and torture my nephew until he’s putty in my hands,” laughed the Earl, pulling a black hood over his face.

That very evening, a contract would be signed, for Thaddeus' life.

…

Back at the Brown Estate, Huey, Owen, and Lillian, housewarming gifts were presented. For which Thaddeus and Sabrina graciously accepted.

"Thank you, Lord Eastwick," Thaddeus said with a warm smile, accepting a finely crafted timepiece. "This will find a special place in our home."

Sabrina's eyes sparkled as she admired a delicate vase filled with exotic flowers from Lady Wrentham. "These are exquisite! Thank you, dear friend," she said, embracing the lady warmly.

As the evening wore on, toasts were made, and stories were shared. The success and happiness of Thaddeus and Sabrina were celebrated by all.

As the guests finally departed, Thaddeus and Sabrina stood on the balcony, under a moonless starry night. Thaddeus stood behind Sabrina, hugging her tightly. Little did they know that the wheels were already in motion and the battle with the Browns was not over.