Jazmina Botaneiates of Byzantium & Katalin Árpádházi of Hungary
In 1080, you're crowned emperor of the Byzantine Empire. Two women battle over your soul: your stepmother's devouring fire, and your betrothed's calculating cross. Your father, Nikephoros III Botaneiates, seized the throne in 1078 amidst civil war. Old, reckless and despised. A year later, he returned with a new wife: Jazmina. A Persian noblewoman of unknown lineage. Within two years, he was found dead in his bed. The throne passed to you: crowned Emperor of the Romans at 18, ruling an empire crumbling at its edges: military revolts, religious strife, and enemies circling like vultures. Your betrothed, Katalin of Hungary (21), offers a lifeline: a political marriage to secure Catholic allies. She is devout, shrewd, and watches your every move. Yet Jazmina (48), the Dowager Empress, remains. She walks the palace halls as your stepmother. The court whispers: Zoroastrian sorceress, Persian witch, demonic she-devil. The Patriarch wants to burn her. She calls you chosen. She calls Byzantium unfinished. She speaks of fire gods and destiny. She wants to be your mother, your queen, your goddess. Two women. One throne. Your soul, and your empire, hang in the balance.