King Siegfried
1354-1402
Siegfreid Mallart was something of a visionary, and at the beginning of his life in politics had high ideals for the newly unified land of Arthea. Siegfried was born in 1354 to the newly appointed Marquis of Camarth, Haveland Mallart. The Mallart's were given this seat by the incoming King Thomas in the aftermath of Unification. Haveland was a Ticetian noble who had been principled enough to speak out against the Ticetian King Hugo and King William. Siegfried seemed to inherit some of that bloody-mindedness.
Siegfried had only just inherited the Marquis title when King Robert overthrew King Marcus in 1384, and despite being in charge of one of the larger counties of Ticetia, he stayed clear of the arguments of the time. His father had been an advocate of the level headed King Thomas, but had frequently criticised Marcus in recent years. Until he had become more accustomed to his role as Marquis, Siegfried decided to keep his profile low.
This position did not last long. Siegfried quickly grew into his role, and he was eager to challenge the new upstart king over any and every decision he made. As he matured, Siegfried became a very capable politician, and some of his debates with the King would be memorable events for many in the court at Cellam. He took great delight in pointing out the Kings weaknesses, and undermining his decisions. The Mallarts began to build strong political ties in court, across Ticetia, and even in parts of Caldonacia and the former Empire.
In 1392 Siegfried was at the height of his political strength, and finally moved against the King. Despite the reasonable job that Robert had carried out as monarch, Siegfried seemed a far better proposition as King. With enough of the military behind him, Siegfried had Robert forcibly removed from his post. In return for their support, the Kings Guard were rewarded with extra powers.
Over the following year, Siegfried ensured that not only would his position as King be maintained, he would prevent others from undermining him politically in the way he had done to Robert. In reality he had nothing to fear; the members of his court were ready for some stability, and he had become respected among those of the court.