Vladimir Alecto

From Fading Suns

First Emperor of the Imperium and last effective head of House Alecto. During an intense period of invasion and raiding across the Known Worlds by the barbarians Vladimir united many factions to fight the invaders and succeeded in freeing the captive planets. After the war he claimed the planets who's owners had not aided the campaign.

Unable to negotiate with the other victors the allies immediately fell into civil war. Vladimir again was victorious and formed the Empire to solidify his power. He developed the Imperial Eye by removing old Internal Investigation structures from House Alecto and established Imperial Fleet from recovered Second Republic hardware.

Assassinated in 4550 at his coronation ceremony on Byzantium Secundus. Burned alive by the ceremonial crown rigged to burst into flames. The plotters remain unknown. Some historians have pointed to the Decados and Hazat fleets actions before the news was received. Others point to the Church seizing Alecto property, yet others blame demonic interference.

Whilst his Empire carried on long after him his own House Alecto was a spent force and ceased shortly after his assassination.

After further conflicts, peace was secured again, sealed with Vladimir’s reforms: all the houses, sects and guilds would vote equally to choose a noble to become Regent, to rule until a new Emperor could be decided upon.