King Georgos II

### Siblings

Prince Harold Vitani Sylis (deceased 1048), Princess Leonora Valeri Sylis (deceased 1058)

### Other Family

Queen Leonora II (granddaughter), Prince Cagle Sylis (uncle, deceased 1031), King Georgos (grandfather, deceased 985), Princess Maria Sylis (grandmother, née Rosemond, deceased 999)

## Allegiance

### Title

King Georgos II of House Sylis, 25th Monarch of the Kingdom of Althea

### Occupation

King of the Kingdom of Althea (1021-1073, 52 years)

**Georgos II** was the ruler of the Kingdom of Althea from his coronation in 1021 AV until his death in 1073 AV. With a reign spanning over 52.5 years, King Georgos II holds the record for the longest reign of any Venthalian monarch, surpassing the reign of King Ardem III in the 9th century, earning him the common nickname "Venthalia's King". Known for his stern, fair, just, and unbiased leadership, Georgos II's reign marked the strongest era of the Sylis Dynasty, as the Kingdom experienced a period of stability, prosperity, and significant progress in multiple areas. Although his health had deteriorated dramatically in his final years, requiring assistance to even stand when delivering a speech, his unyielding resolve kept his mind sharp until the end, remaining a crucial mind and voice in both diplomatic and military strategic issues. His trusted advisor and Viceroy, Lord Darroll of House Tirone, served Georgos II dutifully throughout the entirety of his reign, as Tirone had done for the Kings mother, Queen Lysandra IV.

## Early Life

Born Prince Georgos Cagle Sylis in Althea Prone in 1004 AV, King Georgos II was the firstborn child of Queen Lysandra IV, who struggled with her mental faculties throughout her life. Despite this, he grew up in a loving household with his younger twin siblings, Princess Leonora and Prince Harold, born in 1009 AV. The death of his father, Prince Barion, in a Klans attack at sea in 1015 AV, sent Queen Lysandra IV deeper into insanity, with Viceroy Darroll Tirone assuming more regal responsibilities. When Georgos II was coronated following the passing of Lysandra IV, he offered for Darroll Tirone to keep his title, extending his gratitude for his caring patience and loyalty to his mother, and the realm. Tirone accepted the offer, and has continued to serve as Viceroy ever since.

## Personal Life

In 1029 AV, the Kingdom was being visited by an official envoy from the Holy Kingdom of Davidia, Duke Abel Ariz. King Georgos II met and fell in love with Maribel, daughter of Duke Ariz. The young King asked her father's permission to marry, and they were married in 1030. Maribel was bestowed the title of Princess upon their marriage. The royal couple had two sons: Prince Harmen Cagle Sylis (born 1032 AV) and Prince Ardem Vitani Sylis (later King Ardem V, born 1038 AV). He ensured that his sons received a thorough education and were instilled with a strong sense of duty and responsibility. The king was extremely supportive of his sons' interests, enrolling Prince Harmen in the Goldsea Institute, and Prince Ardem in the Axton Naval Academy, as per the brothers wishes.

## Reign

One of the most significant challenges faced by King Georgos II during his reign was the increasing threat posed by pirate factions, such as the Confederation of Free Sailors (CFS) and the Great Fleet of Klans. In response to this growing menace, Georgos II initiated a series of reforms and policies aimed at bolstering the Kingdom's naval defenses. He ordered the construction of state-of-the-art warships, expanded existing shipyards, and fostered strategic maritime alliances with powerful figures such as the Lord of Ousurferia, Rolf Isch Esbrandt, proving to be a formidable deterrent against piracy. Georgos II also implemented a stern, unforgiving policy towards captured pirates, showing no mercy in his pursuit of justice. Pirates were swiftly tried and executed, with their ill-gotten gains seized and returned to their rightful owners. This firm approach sent a clear message to would-be pirates that the Kingdom would not tolerate their criminal activities. Under Georgos II's reign, the Kingdom of Althea experienced a golden age of trade and commerce. The strengthened navy not only quelled the threat of piracy but also allowed for the establishment of new trade routes. Venthalian merchants ventured far and wide across Daunt, bringing wealth and exotic goods back to the Kingdom. Despite his stern and unforgiving demeanor, Georgos II remained a fair and just ruler. He was known for his unbiased approach to governance, ensuring that all citizens were treated equally under the law. His commitment to justice and equality won him the respect and admiration of his subjects, who saw him as a strong and steadfast leader in uncertain times. The people of the Kingdom would remember him not only as a stern and unforgiving ruler, but also as a fair and just leader who put the well-being of his citizens above all else.