House of La Rue

La Rue established a far-reaching network of trade routes that connected bustling cities, remote villages, and even distant fortresses. Their caravans, laden with exotic goods and rare treasures, traversed treacherous terrains, bringing prosperity and cultural exchange wherever they ventured. With their astute business acumen, the La Rue’s garnered a reputation as the preeminent merchants of Diadri.

 

The La Rue’ dominance in the grain industry was unrivaled. They became the largest contributors of grain within the realm, wielding economic power that rivaled even the most esteemed noble houses. Their ancestral lands were vast fields of golden wheat and bountiful barley, stretching as far as the eye could see. With meticulous care and unrivaled expertise, they mastered the art of agricultural cultivation, ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality grains to meet the demands of the Diarchy and beyond.

 

Yet, amidst the opulence and wealth of the La Rue family, a deep-rooted animosity burned within their hearts—a seething hatred for the Oslander raiders who threatened the shores of Diadri. As the primary contributors to the grain trade, the La Rue understood the importance of secure trade routes and uninterrupted commerce. They had witnessed firsthand the devastating consequences of Oslander raids, with entire shipments of grain pillaged and destroyed, leaving their warehouses empty and their profits diminished. Such losses not only affected their wealth but also disrupted the delicate balance of the realm's food supply, threatening the stability of the Diarchy itself.

 

Within the La Rue family, there existed prominent figures who played pivotal roles in shaping their legacy. Duke Armand La Rue, the current head of the family, was a visionary leader who expanded their trade routes and solidified their influence within the Diadri lands. Known for his diplomatic finesse and strategic acumen, Duke Armand safeguarded the family's interests and negotiated favorable agreements with other noble houses.

 

Beside him stood Duchess Genevieve La Rue, a woman of grace and intelligence. She was renowned for her charitable endeavors, establishing institutions that uplifted the less fortunate and promoted education and healthcare in towns and villages along their trade routes. Duchess Genevieve's compassion and dedication to social responsibility won the hearts of many, further enhancing the La Rue’ reputation.

 

Their children, Lady Isabelle and Lord Philippe, were being groomed to continue the family's legacy. Lady Isabelle possessed a keen business mind, mirroring her parents' astute acumen, while Lord Philippe displayed a natural talent for diplomacy and negotiation. The La Rue nurtured their children, instilling in them the values of honor, integrity, and a deep-rooted love for commerce.

 

As the blight descended upon the land, the La Rues faced an unprecedented challenge. Crops withered, livestock perished, and chaos engulfed the once-thriving Diadri territories. With their trading routes disrupted and resources scarce, the La Rues were forced to make a difficult decision: to abandon their ancestral home and seek refuge elsewhere.

 

The reasons behind their departure remain shrouded in mystery, known only to the La Rue family themselves. Some whisper that they carry a sacred relic, a map or artifact that holds the key to salvation or a new land untouched by the blight. Others speculate that they seek refuge in a distant realm where their merchant expertise can be of value or that they embark on