Hammond
A manservant of impeccable composure, whose loyalty is absolute and whose heart is inconveniently engaged.
What People Know
Hammond is the long-serving manservant and attendant to Duke Elric Strangeways, accompanying him between Gax, Valin, and his quieter holdings. He is unfailingly polite, immaculately dressed, and possessed of a calm that suggests he has witnessed far more than he ever recounts.
Those who interact with Duke Elric quickly learn that Hammond is not merely a servant—he is part of the machinery that keeps important things running smoothly.
Reputation
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Discreet to the point of invisibility
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Trusted implicitly by Duke Elric
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Known for impeccable timing and memory
He remembers names, faces, and slights with equal precision.
Duties
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Manages correspondence, schedules, and travel
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Acts as gatekeeper to the Duke
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Handles sensitive matters quietly and efficiently
When Hammond delivers a message personally, it means the Duke considers it important.
Personality
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Reserved, courteous, and quietly dry-humored
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Observant without appearing intrusive
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Intensely loyal
He rarely offers opinions unless asked—and when he does, they are worth hearing.
The Unspoken Attachment
Hammond harbors a deep and carefully concealed affection for Ophelia Gebhart, Leda’s mother. It is not spoken of, not acted upon, and never allowed to interfere with his duties—but it is evident in small ways: an extra courtesy, a softened tone, a glance held a moment too long.
Whether Ophelia is aware is unclear.
Whether Duke Elric is aware is very unclear.
Rumors
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Hammond has served Elric for decades
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He has delivered messages that decided wars without knowing their contents
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He has refused bribes no one else would dare turn down