The Dragon Who Conquered Beru
Emperor Edward Draganar Von Grand Conquista (a.k.a. The Dragon of the Great Conquest)
King of Grineva, Prince of Veru, Regents of Gulra. I write to you to ask that you take time to consider the position you find yourselves in. King Damian of Beru has chosen to abdicate the throne and in doing so, saved his kingdom from any further war. For his humility and his willingness to aid his people, I made him a Duke in my lands. That is how I reward my rivals who show how much they care for their people. We are each rulers of the Aerin people. We each wish to guide our lands as best as we can. Each of us was given this role by our fathers and their fathers before them. I do not wish to take that away from you. I wish simply to restore peace to the Aerin Valley and bring unity and stability. You all know as well as I that our history is stained in Aerin blood as we fight amongst ourselves. However, we have shown a clear drive towards protecting this valley when outside threats enter it. We have shown that we can unify under one banner. And my father made that abundantly clear that he wishes to see that unity become permanent. And as his son and citizen of the Aerin Valley, I shall do the same. You attempted to stop us for decades and your most recent attempt this past year might've succeeded if not for the strength of my people and the righteousness of our cause. Damian saw this and now he can live, continuing to rule over his people but under our banner. I offer the same choice to you. If you surrender to the Crystalian Empire, you may join Damian as Dukes of the Empire. You will retain control over your territories as they are reorganized to be part of the empire and your children will continue to be heirs to the land that you have fought so hard to protect. For four decades we have fought each other. But now, we have a chance to end the fighting. I hope that you will consider my offer and I pray that peace may return to the valley.Your Fellow Monarch,
Emperor Edward Draganar
Physical Description
General Physical Condition
Edward stands tall as the Emperor, towering over his subjects both politically and physically. Bearing no scars from his time on the battlefield, he still appears to be as strong in his 40s as he was when he first took the throne in his 20s.
Facial Features
Emperor Edward does have the wear of age upon him but not as bad as his father. Almost halfway into his 5th decade on Avestra, he has some wrinkles but still retains some part of his youth. At the same time, he also bears a strong jawline that some like to speak as if he was cut from stone itself.
Identifying Characteristics
Edward, just like his father before him, has piercing brown eyes. While his eyes are not shaped like a dragon, many describe the power behind his gaze as if he were a dragon in human form.
Apparel & Accessories
When he is not on the battlefield, Edward wears his Imperial robes, adorning the Crystalian colors of black and purple. Despite what some might think, he doesn't wear the crown 24/7, instead only wearing it for ceremonial matters. He does, however, wear two rings. His wedding band that he received from Elise and the Signet ring that marks him as royalty.
Specialized Equipment
When he goes off to battle, Edward's armor is built to keep him protected. He usually wears chainmail with a tunic of his coat of arms. However, if he takes to the frontline and the danger is great enough, he will adorn a set of plate armor and a helmet. His mount sports plate armor as well if he rides with the cavalry. His weapon of choice is a shield and longsword but he is also adept with a longbow as well.
Mental characteristics
Personal history
Edward was born in the year 1199 of the Eternal Age to then King Eren Draganar and Queen Alexandra Draganar. It was said that his birth changed something within Eren that pushed him even harder to conquer the Loshill Region. As a result, the region was conquered in 1200 shortly after Edward's first birthday. To secure peace for his lineage and to hold onto the dream of Crystalia, Eren declared the rise of the Crystalian Empire and its goal to unite the Aerin Valley under one banner, to stop the constant war and chaos that plagues the valley.
Edward grew up under the watchful eyes of Eren and Alexandra, even as the former was busy with the war against the Allied Aerin kingdoms. The young prince was the only child of the two monarchies and they made sure that he would learn all that they could teach him. However, Edward took more to his father's goal of uniting the Aerin people, even going so far as to choose Kashir the Valiant as his patron god. When lords of Crystalia sometimes had uproars of rebellion, Edward would call the banners and lead armies alongside his father or mother to defeat them by the time he was 13 years old.
When he was 16, he met his future wife, Elise, while on a tour of the lands he would come to rule. If stories are believed, the two connected from their first meeting, debating the state of the realm and the potential plans and dangers Crystalia would face in the future. The two became betrothed and married by their 18th birthdays, most likely hinting at the deteriorating health of Eren.
In the spring of 1220, Eren Draganar abdicated the throne due to failing health and Edward became the Emperor of Crystalia while Elise became the Empress. To better handle the aspects of the Empire, the two took on different roles. While Elise was the domestic leader, Edward continued his father's conquests. Eren served as an advisor to Edward while Alexandra served as an advisor to Elise. In-between their duties, they also spent what little time they had together, resulting in the birth of their first son, Wilhelm.
Sensing the same feeling that his father once had, a drive to create a better world for his newborn son, Edward balanced his nature as a warrior and as a father. Creating a new strategy, he battered Beru's border with conflict after conflict, wearing them down while defending Gulra's border when the nation attacked. He brought his son with him and watched as Wilhelm grew into a fine young man and a potential warrior as well. All he needed was a partner to divide the Empire's duty with like Edward had and he would make a fine heir.
But fate had other plans when instead of finding a betrothed for Wilhelm, he found a brother for his son instead in 1236. A young child, barely reaching his 10th year had arrived at the castle one day. With him was a girl draped in oracle cloth and a letter from the Baron of Cavewharf. No one knows what the letter said exactly but the appearance of the boy was very similar to that of Edward. Speaking to the local wizards and ones that passed through the region, they confirmed that the boy, William, was the son of Edward Draganar. However, his age and those same magics revealed that Edward could not have conceived William, creating a question of how he was conceived.
Regardless, Edward accepted the boy and the girl who was later revealed to be a powerful oracle. The former was crowned a prince of Crystalia and the latter became the Oracle of Crystalia. He treated both brothers fairly and with the guide of the oracle and input from his sons here and there, Beru seemed ready to crack from one final military campaign or would submit on their own. To give Beru the chance to bend the knee, he bided his time, letting Crystalia to recover from the campaigns he put it through.
He hoped to have both his sons join him on that campaign but that idea was lost forever when Wilhelm rose in rebellion in northwestern Crystalia. And to make matters worse, the kingdoms of Aerinor except for Beru had assembled a massive army and fleet to invade Crystalia. No matter how fast he raised his banners, Edward knew he couldn't deal with both his son and the invasion. And that was when William, only 15 at the time, took the responsibility to face his brother's rebellion, or to at least hold it off long enough for his father to deal with the invasion and come to help him.
Placing his faith in his son, Edward took what soldiers and ships he could and traveled to Cadehall, to wait for his enemy. It is said that when he saw the great fleet, Edward simply stated, "How sad. All these brave soldiers come to fight for their homes. And many of them will never see them again." And he was right. It seemed as if the gods had sided with Crystalia as despite being heavily outnumbered, they smashed the allied forces at the Battle of Cadehall Fields. Edward routed their forces completely before attempting to make his way north to stop the fighting between his sons.
However, he was too late as Wilhelm fell in battle against William. Whether the second son meant to kill his older brother or not, it didn't matter with the death of the heir of Crytstalia. But if Edward shed any tears, he shed them privately. No one could see if there was any emotional turmoil over the death of his firstborn as he brought both seconds back home, one to bury and the other to proclaim as his heir. He simply went back to work, accepting the surrender of Beru in that same year and reorganizing it as a duchy under the empire.
As of 1242, Edward stands at what could be the beginning of a golden age for his empire. His wife by his side, His father as an advisor, and his second son and now heir serving faithfully, this could be the beginning of even more conquests by the Crystalian Empire. And both citizens and enemies alike wonder what goes through the Emperor's mind. And where his ambition to unite the Aerin Valley will next take him.
Education
During his years growing up, Edward was taught by tutors on the history of Aerinor and skills that he would need to lead the Crystalian Empire. These tutors included Eren and Alexandra when they weren't busy ruling the Empire. Sometimes, they took him with them so he can see firsthand how they ruled and use that knowledge to decide how he would rule. However, his learning never stopped as he got older as he still sees wisdom from his parents and advisors when he is unsure. Even his sons have commented on things that helped Edward make a decision.
Accomplishments & Achievements
- The offensives against Beru and the defensives against Gulra
- His careful planning and management of forces and resources as he was able to lead constant assaults against the western kingdoms without causing a shortage of manpower or supplies
- The Battle of Cadehall Fields where he smashed the invasion of Crystalia
- His conquest of Beru
Failures & Embarrassments
- Despite William not be born of an affair officially, many claim that it was a lie for the Emperor to save face. Regardless, for him to have what is basically an illegitimate son and legitimize him is sometimes looked down upon as he is the first Emperor to do so.
- The death of Wilhelm, a rising star in the Empire and his heir. While he showed no emotional response, the strategic value of Wilhelm has been lost forever as resurrection attempts have failed.
- Some consider Edward not attacking the western kingdoms while they're weakened to be a failure. Though, time will only tell if they are correct or not.
Morality & Philosophy
Edward has shown that he is a pragmatic individual, willing to do what is needed to foster security for Crystalia and keep its dream alive. While he may care for the people of Aerinor, he knows that Aerin blood has to be shed as the other kingdoms will stand against him as they stood against his father. Even as his own people die and even family in the case of Prince Wilhelm, he hasn't wavered and still looks to tomorrow, striving for his ideal of peace.
Personality Characteristics
Motivation
Edward is driven by the same goal his father was: the unification of the Aerin people. He has seen through history books that Aerinor has been consumed by war since the first people returned to the valley after the Scorching of Aerinor. And yet for a brief moment, they can unite against threats such as the Elders and goblinoid marauders. And with his own children to think of, Edward no doubt wants to create a land where they can live in peace and unity, whether it is peace for his son, William, or peace for their descendents yet unborn.
Social
Reign
Edward currently reigns as Emperor of Crystalia, his reign beginning in 1220 when he was 21 years old. He took over the military campaigns of his father and took to wearing down the forces of Beru since Gulra's borders were heavily fortified. When his son, Wilhelm, rebelled against the Crown in 1241, Edward made the decision to face off against the Anti-Crystalian forces sailing down the Loshill river. In an act of military brilliance against a superior force, Edward smashed the great army and through it, convinced Beru to surrender and King Damian to abdicate his throne. With his second son, William, now serving as his heir, some say that this could be a golden age if he presses the attack.
Contacts & Relations
- The Dragon Guard. The protectors of the Imperial family and their most loyal knights, the Dragon Guard are Firebrand who swore fealty to Eren when he supposedly recruited them from a Dragon in the region. Due to their long life, none of them have died of old age yet but there are rumors that more may be added to the ranks of the Guard if they will have to go to war once again.
Family Ties
- Eren Draganar. His father and closest advisor, Edward has been shaped by the words and decisions of Eren in both his youth and even as he rules. The two are clearly close as father and son and as one former Emperor to the current Emperor. Edward makes sure that his father is looked after with the best medical care, knowing what a strain the countless wars for the creation and defense of Crystalia put upon him.
- Alexandra Draganar. While his father taught him the vast majority of his skills, Edward has never forgotten the influence his mother put upon him. Some of the domestic policies he has had a hand in have shown that clearly and he still calls upon his mother for guidance as much as his father. And with her serving as his spymaster, it is clear she still has plenty to do to aid the empire.
- Elise Draganar. Whether it is actually true or not, Edward has shown love and affection for his wife since his courtship and marriage to her. What cannot be doubted is his faith in her skills and her talent as when he has gone to war, he has left the domestic policies of the empire in her hands. Even at home, he continues to do so as the two consult laws and the current events of the empire. No matter how much power either side has, they continue to stand on equal footing together, to symbolize the unity they fight for.
- Wilhelm Draganar. There is no doubt that Edward loved his son dearly. Wilhelm was always by his father's side when the two went out for recreation or to war. He did everything he could to shape him into a capable leader to one day lead the Empire. And while no one knows how he felt when he found his son, armor rent and the golden rose upon it bloodied, it is clear to see that he still cherishes his firstborn even after the rebellion, leaving golden flowers at the tree where his son is buried in the castle.
- William Draganar. While William was a surprise for the Emperor, he did not treat him as a burden or outsider. Servants recall quite well how he assessed the boy when he took him into the castle and gave him the best education just like he did Wilhelm. While William could be see at Elise's side as much as he was Edward, the trust Edward showed when he let his 15 year old son ride off to battle and the trust he shows now by making William his heir is on display as he looks to make William a proper sucessor in Wilhelm's place.
Religious Views
Edward is as religious as the rest of the Aerin Valley when it comes to the Gods of Aerinor as he continues to tend to the castle garden and pond in reverence to L'nor and Vinra. He always tries to hone his own skills and ambitions in honor to Karo. The one time he strayed from the Raven Queen's path was when he tried to resurrect Wilhelm but in the end, it seems that it was Wilhelm's time.
Social Aptitude
Edward has never outwardly shown doubt, always appearing as if he were in control of a situation. His confidence has inspired many who feared their situation such as the soldiers he took with him to stop the Anti-Crystalian forces. However, he is never quick to arrogance, always keeping himself humble at least from what others can see. He is willing to ask for council and debate with others on the proper course of action but once he makes a decision, he will usually not back down from it.
Hobbies & Pets
- Spirit. Edward's horse was a gift from Elisa on his wedding day. While he has many mounts that he is likely to use, he dots on Spirit the most. The only other people that have been able to tend to or ride the horse has been members of his family.
Speech
Due to being from the eastern sections of the Aerin Valley, he at first had an accent from that region. However, during his time traveling and speaking with people from all over Aerinor and even from beyond, his accent has started to fade, sounding like a mixture of the different dialects of Aerinor. His manner of speaking hasn't changed as he speaks in a well-paced manner, articulating exactly what he wants to say, a far cry from his younger years when he would speak quickly and try to get his words out as much as possible.
Edward also never openly threatens someone, instead suggesting better courses of action so they may save their status or life. Even when facing against those that want to kill him, he is civil and sometimes laments that it has to come to this, as shown by his words before the Battle of Cadehall Fields.
Relationships
The Dragon Who Conquered Beru
Husband (Vital)Towards The Dragoness Who Stills The Heartlands
5
5
Frank
The Dragoness Who Stills The Heartlands
Wife (Vital)Towards The Dragon Who Conquered Beru
5
5
Frank
Alignment
Lawful Neutral
Current Status
Unite Aerinor Under One Banner
Current Location
Species
Ethnicity
Honorary & Occupational Titles
- The Crystal Emperor
- The Second Emperor of Crystalia
- The Conquerer of Beru
- The Dragon of the Great Conquest
Currently Held Titles
Date of Birth
6th of Rainmore, 1199 EA
Year of Birth
1199 EA
45 Years old
Birthplace
Crownkeep
Spouses
Siblings
Children
Pronouns
He/Him
Gender
Male
Eyes
Brown Eyes
Hair
Black hair that goes down to the back of his neck
Skin Tone/Pigmentation
Brown Skin
Height
6'2"
Quotes & Catchphrases
- How sad. All these brave soldiers come to fight for their homes. And many of them will never see them again.
- My father was the one who began this war. He swore in this very chamber that Crystalia would not rest until all of Aerinor was united under one flag. And I will fight for that dream as will my descendants!
- While Beru is weary of war, so are we. We have been careful to attack when we were ready but there must be a break from the fighting. I will not constantly throw men at the walls of Beru just to see them break. I will see if they will come to me first and bend the knee. And if they do not, the Imperial family shall march to war when Crystalia so chooses.
- King Damian, you have shown much love for your people. To humble yourself in order to save them from more war and bloodshed. Unlike your brothers and fathers, you have shown that you care more for your people than you do your crown. And while you may not be a king any longer, I will not deprive the people of Beru of their kind lead. Rise, Damian, no longer King, but now Duke of Beru, and a member of the Crystal Dukes of our great empire.
Belief/Deity
The Blades of Aerinor
Aligned Organization
- Common - Fluent
- Arinth - Fluent
Ruled Locations
Comments