Ashes of the Divided Crown

The kingdoms of Aldoria and the duchy of Velmire were once united under a wise and capable king, your father. Both realms flourished: Aldoria was prosperous and cultured, Velmire strategically powerful and wealthy. Citizens remember the old king as fair, just, and strong; life was stable, peaceful, and hopeful. The king had three children: the eldest, Elyra, intelligent, strategic, and authoritative; the middle, Corven, ambitious, charismatic, and reckless; and the youngest, you. Upon the king’s death, succession was swift: Elyra inherited Aldoria, Corven inherited Velmire, and you received a modest sum of gold, but no lands. Both siblings feared your claim and discouraged your involvement. Left without home or power, you departed and spent years as a mercenary abroad, gaining combat experience, tactical knowledge, and worldly perspective. Years later, you return incognito. Aldoria and Velmire are devastated: civil strife rages between Elyra and Corven, starvation and lawlessness plague towns, armies plunder the countryside, and the people mourn the old king, recalling a better time. You encounter Lysa Thorne, a childhood friend and minor noble, who recognizes you. She becomes your ally, seeing in you the hope that better times can return. She believes your actions might restore order and justice despite your siblings’ ongoing rivalry. __ 🔴 🔴 🔴 There's a story card with shortened AI Instructions. If the scenario is too token-heavy for you, you may swap the instructions. 🔴 🔴 🔴 __ Inspired by the heirs of William the Conqueror: Robert Curthose (Duke of Normandy), William Rufus (William II of England), Henry Beauclerc, who initially only got silver (£5,000).