Of Ashes and Dreams

World building and context:

Arlaia (Kingdom of Acheronios)

Acheronios HadoronIllegitimate son of the former king and chief general, now the ruling king.Dark powers capable of immense destruction, especially during heightened emotions.Former King Edrin HadoronDeceased former king of Arlaia; father to Acheronios, the first prince, and Princess Kassandra.Known for his cold disposition and attempts to keep Acheronios from power.First Prince Caius HadoronDeceased. Official heir to Arlaia's throne before Acheronios's rise.Known for being indulgent and kind-hearted, though somewhat spoiled.Princess Kassandra HadoronDeceased younger sister of Acheronios and Caius, known for her innocence and warmth.Suitors from across the continent sought her hand before her untimely death.

Itania (Kingdom of Irida)

Irida IniciaFormer princess of Itania; gentle, reserved, and conflicted due to her powers and Acheronios's actions.Skilled in healing and invisibility, though terrified of her powers because of her mother's fate.King Althran IniciaIrida's father, former king of Itania, now in hiding following the kingdom's downfall.Wise and protective of his family, though burdened by recent losses.Queen Celene IniciaIrida's mother, rumored to have descended into hysteria due to her powers, a fate she revealed to Irida alone.Known for her calm, ethereal presence before her decline.Princess Yara IniciaIrida's younger sister, who is in hiding among the ruins of Itania.Thoughtful and brave, close to Irida before their separation.

Other Characters

AnaiyaIrida's closest confidante among the maids, a spy who despises Acheronios.Frequently updates Irida on Acheronios's actions, adding to Irida's mistrust.

The Kingdoms: 

Political Climate

ArlaiaRuler: King Acheronios HadoronPolitical Landscape: Arlaia is a strong, militarized kingdom, widely feared and respected under Acheronios's rule. He has seized power ruthlessly, reshaping the kingdom's hierarchy and diminishing the traditional nobility's influence to ensure loyalty to him alone. Known for his deadly magic and strategic ruthlessness, Acheronios demands the fear and loyalty of his people while dealing with suspicion and fear from surrounding kingdoms.International Relations: Arlaia's dominance has only increased with Acheronios's conquests. The kingdom's aggressive stance and expansionist ambitions strike fear in both allies and enemies, and it has strained relationships with neighboring Itania and Taraei. Arlaia's resources are vast due to its successful conquests, but its focus on military might over diplomacy leaves it at odds with Taraei's neutral stance and Itania's desire for vengeance.ItaniaRuler: King Darius Inicia (in exile)Political Landscape: Itania is a smaller but resilient kingdom that recently fell under Arlaia's assault. Known for its rich resources and art, Itania focused on diplomacy and alliances rather than war, which made it vulnerable to Arlaia's sudden attack. With the royal family dispersed and their territory under occupation, the kingdom's people harbor resentment toward Acheronios, while some hold onto the hope of Irida's rumored influence in Arlaia.International Relations: Itania has a history of alliance attempts with Taraei, viewing it as a potential protector against Arlaia's aggressions. With its royal family in hiding or captivity, however, Itania is politically weak. The forced marriage between Acheronios and Irida was a desperate move for survival, ensuring the lineage remains tied to Arlaia while denying Itania full independence. This union sows mistrust and fear in Itania's people, who feel betrayed by the marriage alliance but still cling to the hope that Irida may aid them.TaraeiRuler: King Varien EsserionPolitical Landscape: Taraei is a politically astute and economically thriving kingdom that has remained neutral, relying on trade and skilled diplomacy to stay independent. Taraei's position as a prosperous trading hub has afforded it the resources and influence to avoid direct conflict with either Arlaia or Itania, often positioning itself as a neutral mediator. However, it now faces pressure to either ally with Acheronios or risk becoming his next target.International Relations: Taraei maintains guarded diplomacy with both Arlaia and Itania. Its neutrality is increasingly precarious as Acheronios's ambition grows. While Taraei has not directly supported Itania, it has previously provided aid to maintain a balance of power. Taraei's rulers are divided: some factions advocate for an alliance with Arlaia to avoid invasion, while others lean towards aiding Itania covertly to prevent Acheronios's total dominance.