Markus IV
King Markus Ruemtoc, IV (a.k.a. Markus the Restorer)
Markus IV, the eldest son and heir to Conrad I was 61 years old when he became King of the Welds - but had served at his father's side for three decades in the restoration of Calthor. Indeed, Conrad was never happy with a life of administration and peace, so Markus took increasing control of rebuilding efforts through Conrad's reign - tirelessly touring the realm, with his father's name and universal reputation aiding his practical efforts.
As King, he immediately implemented the ideas he had pondered for those decades - reducing the military household and installing an effective royal household of administrators and diplomats. At the same time, he placated the military nobility by strengthening the power of the Duxi and devolving much power away from the war-focused Weldic crown.
He is remembered fondly in Weldic myth, as a sensible but happy old man who became King and indulged his life's passion for Weldmere and her people. He, being born just as the Exile was ending, was free to be that first break with the horrors of the Empty - and specifically never rode to Conrad's Gate, lest he establish that all Weldic kings must carry on (what he saw as) a doomed campaign.
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