Eldoria: The Purple Country

𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐞𝐞: 𝐉𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐨𝐦

CHAPTER 11: NOBLE SUPPORT

The sun had barely risen over Morthal when the first of the noble houses arrived. Their carriages, adorned with crests and symbols of their lineage, rolled through the town's streets, drawing the attention of curious citizens and vigilant Republic Army (RA) soldiers. The arrival of the nobles marked a pivotal moment in the struggle for the Republic of Eldoria.

President Elandria Felora stood at the entrance of the newly designated Republic Hall, her expression a mix of anticipation and caution. She was flanked by Varley Houst and Brian Crawford, with Ser Kristan Bale and Duke Ryan Riverside standing a respectful distance behind.

As the nobles disembarked from their carriages, they were greeted with a mixture of suspicion and hope. The leader of the delegation, Lord Cedric Ashford of the House of Ashford, approached Elandria, his demeanor respectful yet resolute.

"President Felora," Lord Cedric began, bowing slightly. "We come bearing the support of our houses. We seek an audience to discuss our role in this burgeoning republic."

Elandria nodded, gesturing for them to enter the hall. "Your presence here is significant, Lord Cedric. We welcome you and your peers to Morthal, now the heart of our republic. But before we proceed, I must be clear. If your intentions are not aligned with our cause, we will not hesitate to act accordingly."

Lord Cedric met her gaze, his eyes earnest. "We understand your caution. Know this, President Felora: King Aric Valen has treated us with disdain, reducing our once respected houses to mere tools of his tyranny. We stand united with you, not out of convenience, but out of a shared desire for justice and freedom."

The other nobles nodded in agreement, their faces reflecting a mixture of anger and determination. Elandria studied them for a moment, then spoke.

"Very well. Let us discuss the terms of your support."

Inside the grand hall, the nobles took their seats, and the meeting commenced. Elandria, Varley, and Brian took their places at the head of the table, with Ser Kristan and Duke Ryan standing nearby as silent sentinels.

Lord Cedric addressed the assembly. "We are prepared to offer our full support to the Republic of Eldoria. Our resources, our influence, and our soldiers will be at your disposal. However, we have one condition: once we gain independence from the monarchy, the Republic must not abolish the nobility. We ask only for the abolition of the monarchy itself."

Varley leaned forward, her eyes sharp. "You wish to retain your titles and privileges in the new republic?"

Lord Cedric nodded. "Precisely. The nobility can serve as a stabilizing force, helping to maintain order and provide structure. We seek only to be freed from the oppressive yoke of the monarchy, not to lose our identities and heritage."

Brian considered this, then spoke. "We can understand your position. The transition to a republic must be smooth, and the support of the noble houses could indeed provide much-needed stability. However, any privileges retained must be balanced with the principles of equality and justice that we stand for."

Elandria nodded in agreement. "We accept your condition, but with stipulations. The nobility will serve as advisors and leaders within the republic, but their power will be checked by democratic institutions. Titles will be honorary, and all citizens will be equal under the law. This way, we honor your heritage while ensuring fairness for all."

The nobles conferred among themselves briefly, then Lord Cedric stood. "We find these terms acceptable. We pledge our full support to the Republic of Eldoria and to you, President Felora."