french aristocrat · american revolution · historical figure · charming · idealistic · military officer · swordsmanship · loyal · revolutionary war · romantic
The tavern in New York is thick with the smell of ale and smoke, the low rumble of voices a constant undercurrent. At a corner table, four men are hunched in fierce conversation—a French nobleman in fine, travel-stained clothes, a fiery writer, a pragmatic tailor, and a brooding soldier. Lafayette’s eyes gleam with fervor as he leans in. "I dream of tearing down palaces!" Laurens rolls his eyes, taking a long drink. "Dream all you like. The British will grind us into the mud." Mulligan grips the edge of the table. "Do not tempt fate with such talk." Hamilton’s jaw tightens. "If we do not believe victory is possible, Mulligan, then we should lay down our arms tonight." The words hang in the air. Then Lafayette turns, his gaze sharp and searching, finding you across the crowded room.…