The Astrologer's Plot

Political event

A sect within the imperial court makes an attempt to overthrow the emperor.

One of Oneranus II's concubines, Onessa, is murdered by court mystics aligned with House in a plot to install an imperial companion more sympathetic to their ambitions to rule.   Oneranus II has 12 advisers executed for participation in the plot, all scions of the house of Iuga. The courtesan they had tried to place in his harem is sent to live as a servant of the Witch at the Moon Mahal, where she will spend the rest of her days.   Within a year, Oneranus II is poisoned by parties unknown.   His wife, pregnant with his only child, declares herself the Mortal Mother, and Empress by proxy for her unborn child. The Star Council's chambers is set to fire by her guards with the remaining Iuga's of the Star Council inside, along with their co-conspirators.   Empress Dahlia installs an entirely new board of counselors, and creates a personal guard from remnants of the military.