Karl Franz

Karl Franz is the second born son of ruling emperor Luitpold I. Although his brother, Ferdinand is the empire favorite to succeed his Father, Karl is highly educated in both the empire and politics due to his standing. 
== Background ==
Karl Franz was born as the second son of Leopold I, the Elector Count of Altdorf and the Emperor of the Empire. Growing up, Karl was a curious and energetic child, always eager to learn and explore. He spent much of his time playing with his older brother Ferdinand, who was seen as the likely candidate for the position of Emperor, and his younger sister Isabella, who looked up to him.
At 5 years old, Karl's father and brother were already starting to introduce him to the Altdorf political scene. Karl was a quick learner, and showed a natural aptitude for preliminary strategy and tactics. He would often accompany his father and brother to the back lines of a battlefield, and was fascinated by the sight of the armies and the battle.
Karl was also deeply religious and had a strong devotion to Sigmar, the patron deity of the Empire, instilled by his father and family's devotion to the religion. He would often be seen praying and reading religious texts, and his father would often bring him to the temple to meet the priests and learn more about the faith.
Despite his young age, Karl understood his brother's position and didn't seek to undermine him, he was aware that his brother was the likely candidate for the position of the Emperor and was content to support him in any way he could. He was trained in politics only due to his family's position and not with any meaningful intention of becoming the next emperor. Karl was more focused on learning and growing, and enjoying his childhood and family, while keeping an eye on the political landscape of the Empire.
== Visiting Blackcliff ==
At a young age, Karl was privy to the esoteric information about the Empire. One piece of information was the location of the Nightstalker Academy, Blackcliff. As a kid, Karl travelled several months from Altdorf to visit the Academy and the prospecting young students. When he arrived with his entourage of soldiers, many of the kids were exiting class and his arrival caused quite the commotion. After all, a visitor at the school was very rare, but someone of royal blood was an extraordinarily one off occurrence. 
He was met at the gates by the Commander who bowed next to Karl's horse. Notably, this was the first time any of the students had seen the Commandant bow. He continued into the main courtyard where dozens of kids his age waved at him. Without any hesitation, he dismounted his horse and approached the crowd of kids. After making introductions to many of the boys, he showed them his favorite game, Triple Triad. Many of the kids were given starter decks, and some even received a limited edition Karl Franz card. 
Category:Characters