King Olanson

King Olanson was the long-reigning ruler of Berana, a kingdom along the eastern coast of Red. He spent nearly 50 years expanding its territory and built the strongest navy in the Mainland zones.

Rule and Legacy

Although too old to fight personally in his final years, Olanson continued to general his kingdom's battles. He was supported by a large clan of approximately thirty children who handled the fighting.

Olanson's Red mages were notable enough to attract interest from other powers, including a Shark lord interested in their ability to enhance sharks.

Succession

Olanson's succession plans proved unstable. He initially named Prince Morgan as heir but removed him following a significant military loss. This left the kingdom's future unclear, with concerns about how well Berana would hold together after his death.

Death and Impact

King Olanson was killed by a Slith assassin, sparking an immediate succession crisis. Multiple contenders claimed the throne:

• Prince Varen: Oldest child but illegitimate
• Princesse Anne: Oldest legitimate child
• Prince Quentin: Only surviving descendant of the lord of northern Berana
• Prince Morgan: Previously named heir with disputed legitimacy
• Princess Wendy: Youngest, not of age but backed by Queen Mary

The crisis was resolved when Violet, High Priest of Navere, declared that a surviving spouse could name the heir. This established Queen Mary and Princess Wendy as the legitimate ruling line.

Olanson's assassination by Slith made Berana's anti-Slith stance more credible and prompted the kingdom to seek alliances with Melmane and the Mer against the Slith threat.