King Ardem V

### Parents

King Georgos II (deceased 1073), Princess Maribel Sylis (née Ariz, deceased 1068)

### Other Family

Prince Ardem Georgos Sylis (grandson), Queen Lysandra IV (grandmother, deceased 1021), Prince Barion Giralt (grandfather, deceased 1013), Prince Harold Vitani Sylis (uncle, deceased 1048), Princess Leonora Valeri Sylis (aunt, deceased 1058)

## Allegiance

### Title

King Ardem V of House Sylis, 26th Monarch of the Kingdom of Althea

### Occupation

King of the Kingdom of Althea (1073-1084, 11 years), Althean Royal Navy Officer (1055-1062, 7 years)

**Ardem V** was King of the Kingdom of Althea, from his coronation in 1073 AV until his death in 1084 AV. As the younger son of King Georgos II, Ardem V was initially not in line for the throne. His brother, Prince Harmen Cagle Sylis, was the designated heir, but he abdicated his royal titles and rights in favor of a career at the Goldsea Institute, allowing Ardem V to ascend to the throne. During his 11 years as ruling monarch, Lord Darroll Tirone, who served his father and grandmother as viceroy, also maintained the office, continuing into the reign of Leonora II.

## Upbringing and Early Life

Ardem V was born Prince Ardem Vitani Sylis in Althea Prone in 1038 AV, during the reign of his father King Georgos II. Raised amidst the royal court, his education focused on the various responsibilities he would assume as a prince. Ardem V was deeply influenced by his father's values of fairness, justice, and the importance of putting the needs of the Kingdom before personal desires. This upbringing would shape him into a dedicated and responsible ruler later in life. At the age of 17, Ardem V enlisted in the Royal Navy, where he served for seven years. His time in the navy was marked by discipline, commitment, and a strong sense of duty. His military experience provided him with valuable insights and understanding of the Kingdom's naval defenses, which would later prove beneficial during his reign as king. His service in the navy also demonstrated his ability to lead and work collaboratively with others, traits that would serve him well in his future role as monarch.

## Marriage and Birth of Leonora II

While stationed in Axton, Ardem V met and married Emilia Markum, daughter of Lord Michael Markum, in 1059 AV. Emilia was bestowed the title of Princess upon their marriage. The union between Ardem V and Emilia was marked by love and respect, and their partnership would be a source of strength and support throughout Ardem V's life and reign. In 1062 AV, Ardem V and Emilia welcomed the birth of their daughter, Leonora Maribel Sylis, who would later become Queen Leonora II. Her birth would unexpectedly signify the continuation of the Sylis Dynasty, and Ardem V took great care in raising his daughter to be a strong, capable, and compassionate leader.

### Coronation and Royal Life

In 1073 AV, following the death of Georgos II, ending the longest reign in Venthalian history, Ardem V's older brother, Prince Harmen, abdicated his rights to the throne in favor of a career at the Goldsea Institute. This unexpected turn of events led to Ardem V's ascension to the throne as King. His coronation marked the beginning of a new chapter in the Kingdom's history, with Ardem V dedicated to maintaining stability and prosperity for his people. As king, Ardem V ensured that his daughter, Leonora, received a thorough education and was instilled with a strong sense of duty and responsibility. He guided her in learning about the various aspects of governance and royal life, preparing her for her future role as Queen. This early exposure to the responsibilities and expectations of royalty would shape Leonora into the steadfast and competent leader she is today.

## Reign and Legacy

After ruling for 11 years, King Ardem V tragically succumbed to heart complications in 1084 AV at the age of 46. King Ardem V's reign, though short, was marked by his dedication to the Kingdom's stability and prosperity. He focused on maintaining a strong and efficient navy, emphasizing its importance in protecting the Kingdom of Althea's coastal territories and trade routes. His reign was also characterized by his ability to rise to the challenge of kingship, despite growing up having no intention to wear the crown.