Mara of the Acoma
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Mara of the Acoma  | ||||||||
Character information
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Mara of the Acoma is the Ruling Lady of House Acoma and protagonist of the Empire Trilogy series of fantasy novels.
Modus operandi
Very soon after assuming rulership of her House, Mara starts showing herself a talented player in the Game of the Council, the intricate web of intrigue that permeates politics in the Empire of Tsuranuanni. While some of her rival Lords rely on violence and assassination, Mara prefers the subtleties of political and economical maneuvering. One of her specialties is manipulating to her favor the strict code of honor that rules Tsurani society, the epitome of which is orchestrating situations in which her enemies dishonor themselves and are forced to commit ritual suicide. She also knows how to take advantage of her image as a young, inexperienced woman thrust into a position of power in order to make her enemies underestimate her and let their guard down. Yet, her most valuable asset, that sets her apart from most other Tsurani Lords, is her innovative thinking. She constantly defies or reinterprets Tsurani tradition in unique ways to help her achieve her goals, while maintaining the proper forms required by Tsurani society to avoid dishonor.
Mara also relies on a board of her most trusted advisers for help. These include Nacoya, the old nurse who holds a keen understanding of the nuances of Tsurani society and politics, Keyoke, a seasoned warrior with a sharp strategical mind, Jican, the diligent overseer of the estate's business and finances, and Arakasi, possibly the greatest spymaster in the Empire.
Notable Tricks
See also: List of Tricks in the Empire Trilogy
- Black Rag Trick: Declaring Papewaio a condemned man after he invades the sacred glade to save her life, but postponing his death sentence indefinitely, thus avoiding sacrificing a valuable warrior while maintaining his honor. (Daughter of the Empire, Ch. 2)
- Red Cord Trick: Declaring blood feud against the Minwanabi to make Jingu apprehensive, in order to buy time to rebuild her house. (Daughter of the Empire, Ch. 2)
- Grey Warriors Trick
