149 149: The Mysterious surrounding the cloak

However, these wins were insufficient to impress the object of his affection.

Besides, the modest fortunes he had amassed also paled in comparison to the wealth required to sway the noblewoman's father. Without his permission, it was impossible to get her hand in marriage.

Anyways, as he was accumulating wealth at a safer pace, news spread that a suitable suitor had been found for the love of his life and she had even agreed to marry him.

When news reached him of her impending marriage to another, desperation took hold of him. 

Believing that significant wealth could halt the marriage, allowing him to claim her hand, he staked everything, even his future, in a gamble that, if won, would elevate him to the ranks of the wealthy elite of Esteros.

But luck is a fickle ally.