Alman's Fortunes on the Rise

In a sudden reversal to their recent fortunes, Duke Alman and his kin have recently enjoyed a nigh unto unprcedented improvement to their status. Readers might recall that it has been the Almans who have for ages been preaching solidarity among the ranks of the minor houses with only limited success. Within a period of less then a month though they have left those ranks behind and find themselves on the cusp of greatness.

In a surprising move the Emperor himself has praised the Almans and by his own hand elevated them to the ranks of the Greater houses. While the Almans have always held vast holdings on behalf of the throne theirs has been a mostly quiet reign. Apparently though, there is something within them that His Majesty has found worthy. Their elevation was concluded quickly and with little fanfare, though there was a great deal of whispering in the halls of power as the nobility wonder what this move might portend.

In addition to their increase in status, the Almans also find themselves the final winner of the much contested Negara Sysselraad Chair and the seat on the Court of First Instance which comes with it. The deciding vote, cast by House Teranos, the incumbent and often absent chairman, comes as only one among many surprises regarding the Almans this month.

So what does the future now hold for this suddenly charmed house? No one can be certain as yet but as many surprises as they have proven capable of lately, nothing can really be ruled out. They find themselves suddenly in imperial favor, powerful and influential. It remains to be seen what they will do with these blessings but if the Duke ever had an agenda he wished to push through, now would likely be the time to do it. The relative power among the greater houses can ebb and flow so the truly wise must be ready when opportunity presents itself.