At the heart of Driftmar, rising above the city, stands the imposing castle of Lord and Lady Duskwood. Crafted from gleaming white marble, the castle is a grand and commanding structure, its towering spires are visible from almost every corner of the city. By day, the sun catches the marble, making the castle shimmer against the sky. By night, its towers are bathed in the soft glow of lantern light, giving it an almost ethereal presence over the city. The Driftmar crest—two gulls flanking a lighthouse—is proudly displayed on banners that flutter from the highest towers.

The castle’s architecture is as intricate as it is imposing, with delicate carvings of the city’s history etched into the walls. The entrance is guarded by towering gates of black iron, engraved with ancient symbols that whisper of old magic. Inside, grand halls echo with the soft footfalls of nobles and courtiers, their whispers never quite loud enough to hear but always present.

The Duskwoods themselves are a charismatic and enigmatic couple. Lord Alistair Duskwood is the charismatic face of the family, known for his sharp features, silver tongue, and mastery of diplomacy. He navigates Driftmar’s complex political landscape with ease, his charm and wit making him both respected and feared. A natural leader, Alistair is often seen in public, attending grand events and mingling with the merchants and nobles. His presence commands attention, and he has a reputation for turning even the most difficult negotiations in his favor.

In contrast, Lady Seraphine Duskwood is more elusive, allowing her husband to take the spotlight while she remains in the background. Strikingly beautiful, with raven-black hair and a fierce intellect, Seraphine is admired from afar but rarely engages directly with the city’s affairs. Her cold, aloof demeanor has earned her a reputation as someone to be respected but not easily approached. Despite her distance, those who know the inner workings of the Duskwood family whisper that it is Seraphine who advises Alistair behind closed doors, her keen mind guiding the decisions that shape Driftmar’s future. Where Alistair dazzles with charm, Seraphine observes from the shadows, always several steps ahead of her rivals.

Together, the Duskwoods have brought prosperity to Driftmar. Under their rule, the markets flourish, the streets are relatively safe, and the city thrives. The people speak of their rulers with respect and admiration, grateful for the peace and wealth they have enjoyed. Festivals are held regularly, and the castle often opens its gates for grand celebrations, further solidifying the bond between the rulers and the citizens.

Yet, despite the Duskwoods’ charisma and leadership, an air of mystery clings to them. Rumors of secret dealings and shadowy figures slipping into the castle under the cover of night persist, though few dare to voice these suspicions openly. Within the castle’s towering walls lie rooms that only the Duskwoods themselves have entered, and whispers of old magic and hidden knowledge linger in the dimly lit halls. While the people of Driftmar admire their rulers, there is a quiet unease—a sense that not everything is as it seems. How did the Duskwoods rise to such power, and what price have they paid to maintain it?

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