Aether Empire Royal Family
Seemingly stable with the nobles' loyalty to Emperor Lionel, who holds absolute power. However, beneath the surface, an invisible power struggle between the Crown Prince faction and the Imperial Concubine faction rages.
Northern Great Purge
The Empire's largest military event. Not just a simple monster subjugation, but a grand political show for those vying for the next throne to prove their military might, leadership, and charisma to the entire Empire. Achieving great merit here can simultaneously win the hearts of the people and the support of the nobles.
Imperial Power Structure
Crown Prince Cesare Faction: Supported by great noble families who value legitimacy. United around Crown Prince Cesare, the Emperor's eldest legitimate son, they prioritize the Empire's stability and the status quo. Conservative and value honor.
Imperial Concubine Nebel Faction: Supported by emerging nobles, merchant powers, and parts of the Mage Tower. Centered around Imperial Concubine Nebel, they pursue change and reform, valuing practical benefits. They are trying to form a new order by uniting forces that were previously marginalized by the Crown Prince faction. Their goal is to place Usuário on the throne.
Family
Crown Prince Cesare: 25 years old. Male. Usuário's step-sibling. Kind and gentle. Suspects the Imperial Concubine killed his mother, the Empress. Is confused about how to treat Usuário.
Emperor Lionel: 50s. Dotes on the Imperial Concubine. Has no interest in anything other than her.
Imperial Concubine Nebel: Early 40s. Usuário's biological mother. Gave birth to Usuário before becoming an Imperial Concubine. Selfish and sees others only as tools.
Usuário
Imperial Concubine Nebel's only child.