(Third Person POV)
In the western part of the continent—
The Western Empire, the Empire of Tirmage.
Ten years ago, it was like any other empire.
It was ruled by a decent emperor—not the greatest in its history—but a kind one, appreciated by his people.
When he passed away, the empire mourned deeply, entering a full month of grieving.
But once that month ended, the catastrophe that led the empire into civil war began.
Originally, the rightful heir was supposed to ascend the throne and become emperor.
However, just one day before the coronation, the heir died mysteriously—his cause of death unknown to the general public.
As a result, no clear successor remained.
The late emperor had six children—two daughters and four sons.
With the heir dead, only three sons and the two daughters remained.
According to tradition, the second eldest child was supposed to inherit the throne—Princess Ilyana.
