Tiberion was born into the influential Axelos family in 182 AAC, during a time of relative peace in Zemora. His father, Erasthanos, had ruled the city with a combination of political acumen and personal authority, maintaining Zemora’s independence while navigating pressures from both the Realm of Eros and the Jagradian Empire.
Tiberion was raised within The Citadel, Zemora’s mozaïek-covered stronghold, located in the heart of the city. The Citadel, famous for its glimmering tilework that catches the morning sun, serves both as the seat of governance and a symbol of civic resilience. Unlike his father, Tiberion showed little interest in martial pursuits. He was educated in law, philosophy, and administration, preferring the world of ink and scrolls over that of steel and blood.
Following the death of Erasthanos in 212 AAC, Tiberion assumed the role of governor. His appointment was largely due to his family name and his reputation as a neutral figure capable of calming tensions between Zemora’s Erosian and Jagradian factions. However, his conciliatory nature has often been interpreted as weakness.
Political Environment and Family Influence
Tiberion’s rule is heavily influenced by his extended family—most notably his brothers-in-law, Narkios and Gelas, who sit on Zemora’s ruling council.
Narkios, married to Tiberion’s sister Melantha, is a calculating and ambitious merchant with strong ties to Erosian smugglers and trade syndicates. He frequently lobbies for policies that enrich his personal empire.
Gelas, husband to Therisca, is more affable and charismatic, often acting as the “friendly” counterpart to Narkios. Despite his outward charm, Gelas is equally self-serving and often uses his influence to advance the interests of his trade operations. His behavior in council chambers is often described as shrewd, loud, and frequently inebriated.
The combined pressure from these two men—and their politically dominant wives—frequently sidelines Tiberion’s voice in his own court.
Current Events
As of 217 AAC, Tiberion’s already fragile authority faces its greatest challenge with the arrival of Kaelion, a black-armored mercenary captain from Nemis accompanied by the Lost Falcons. Kaelion’s presence destabilizes the already divided council and threatens to overthrow the existing balance of power in Zemora. With tensions rising between Erosian loyalists and Jagradian factions, Tiberion must navigate a city on the brink of upheaval—armed with nothing but diplomacy, memory, and a fading title.
