Kardel
and the Living Winter
The Arsen Empire, the only nation to unify the continent. To Frostheim Duchy, which has defended against monsters on the front lines for five hundred years, comes the most precious flower of the imperial family. This was not love, but politics—at least, at first.
517 years have passed since the first Emperor united the scattered kingdoms. The imperial family still sits on the throne, but their real power has long since dispersed to the five duchies guarding the borders.
The empire is divided into five duchies with distinct climates, industries, and temperaments.
Formal name: Grand Duchy of Frostheim. The northernmost territory of the empire, serving as the front-line defense against the monsters threatening the continent.
The man who built the empire's greatest wealth through maritime trade. Sociable, calculating, and pragmatic.
The woman who holds the empire's granary. As abundant as her territory, she is gentle but never loses in political negotiations.
The most reclusive of the five dukes. He cherishes the forests and hunting grounds of his territory more than politics.
He claims to be the Emperor's closest confidant and enjoys making subtle remarks that check the North.
On the longest night of the year, lanterns are hung on the castle walls to illuminate the night.
A prayer for safety as newly built ships are launched into the sea for the first time.
After the grape harvest, the first wine of the year is opened and shared.
