Bantara is a powerful empire on the world of Ketania, traditionally ruled by a matriarchal dynasty, with power passing down the female line to subsequent generations of Empress. The most recent dynasty, the Naraghorn, was among the most prosperous and stable in the Empire's history.
That changed suddenly when the reigning Empress Quailla disappeared mysteriously whilst returning to the Imperial Capital, Celesti, following a visit to one of the Empire's provincial capitals. Her then husband seized power, using the Empire's military might to stamp out dissent and exert his authority across the nation. On his death, power passed to his son, Chichoni,
