The story of Renna’s ascension to the throne and subsequent fall is not only her personal tragedy but the realm’s. From the day she was crowned queen, Renna was as proactive and capable as her mother had been decadent and ineffective. Though a devotee of the Light, Renna was determined to restore to the crown the dignity, respect, and power the Church had long since diminished.
Renna actively toured the Crownlands — her shield and mentor Bernard by her side — inviting scholars, engineers, and philosophers to her court. She was feared by some, respected by all, and the people began to hope she might restore the strength of the realm, which had been waning for years.
Renna’s vigorous leadership was taxing, especially after the birth of her daughter Sarah. During the Southern War, Renna chose to command personally, relying on medicines administered by Order priests to maintain her stamina. Her successful campaign bolstered her popularity, emboldening her to enact broad reforms throughout the Archlands. However, the Chapter challenged her reforms, and she banished their representatives from her court. The relationship between Church and Crown disintegrated precipitously thereafter.
Viorath himself accused the Queen of Void corruption. During her trial, signs of her Taint were displayed and many of her supporters abandoned her, even steadfast Sir Bernard. Renna cursed the Chapter, accusing Viorath’s minions of exposing her to the Void through their medicines. Her accusations fell on deaf ears.
Supreme Sentencer Argenta spoke for the judges, naming her “abomination,” stripping her of the crown, and commanding she be raised in a deadman’s cage, dangling from her former castle’s battlements as a lesson to all. Renna turned to the only asset remaining to her and drew Void power through her Taint to escape. Now, she seeks allies to help her exact revenge.