The Crown That Doesn’t Shine
“Astra Quint,” she said, extending her hand, wondering what was in those drinks and if she could marry his bartender. […]
Side Quest
Side Quest
Show Me Something Better: Trust, Tech, and the Shape of Home
In an off-the-record conversation over samosas and zebra pastrami, Lord Marmaduke opens up to Priya Shen about alien partnerships, post-collapse power grids, and the neural interface that changed everything.
Side Quest
Tuesday Lunch and the Price of Memory
Matt reflects on food, friendship, and the cost of abundance in a post-collapse world where zebra pastrami belongs in school lunches—and personal history still comes with boundaries.
Side Quest
More Than a Park, Less Than a Throne
Lord Marmaduke answers a pointed question about identity, leadership, and legacy with a story that spans generations, reminding us that civilization isn’t built by governments—but by those who choose to stay.
Side Quest
WSJ: A Dollar Rent and the Weight of Commitment
When journalist Jeff Sykes questions the legality and values behind the Marmaduke Freehold, Matt answers with clarity, candor—and a life-altering offer that challenges everything Jeff thought he knew about freedom.
Main Story
Meeting the Parents at the Top of the World
When Kevin brings Mall to a high-status gathering, her fear of being exposed collides with unexpected kindness, power plays, and quiet reassurance from those who rule the world around her.
Side Quest
Skirts, Secrets, and Sauvignon: The Night Missouri Sparkled
At sunset on June 4th, 2440, the Freehold hosted media, family, and V’ren guests for an evening of wine, jazz, and unexpected honesty. From exotic wildlife to teenage gossip, the night proved Missouri could do diplomacy—with style.
Side Quest
A Truck for a Brother
As a public thank-you for his tireless work, Matt gifts K’rem a fully customized truck—complete with V’ren-language interface and all the horsepower one needs to feel truly at home in Missouri.
Side Quest
Farm Boy
Kevin’s nerves nearly get the best of him as he asks Mall to the fair, but her answer—and the way she reaches for his hand—changes everything.
Side Quest
Homecoming
Matt and L’tani return from their whirlwind lake escape to find work underway and emotions running deeper than expected. A glimpse into desire, restraint, and rediscovering human connection on a warm Missouri afternoon.
Main Story
After Hours Confessions and Cold Dr Pepper
On the night of June 3, 2440, Matt opens up to Angelina in a rare moment of vulnerability. Over deviled eggs and cold Dr Pepper, they share a quiet porch conversation about grief, legacy, lost love, and the fear of starting over—revealing the emotional truth behind Matt’s stoic leadership and lonely strength.
Main Story
Cold Coffee and Old Wounds
Late on June 3, 2440, in the quiet of the Marmaduke farmhouse, Angelina and Lola Rhea confront long-buried truths about Matt, grief, and unspoken love. Over cold coffee and fading memories, they name the wounds no one else will—and the silent ache Matt still carries beneath his public strength.