Emperor Kordillus Drakon I was the founder and first emperor of the Orlesian Empire. He also formalized the cult of worshiping the Maker into the Chantry of Andraste. Kordillus Drakon I was crowned in -3 Ancient (1192 TE); the first Divine was elected three years later, beginning the new calendar at 1:1 Divine.
Drakon was a brilliant general, leading the Orlesian Empire to rapid expansion (including joining the Anderfels to the Empire) and achieving significant victories against darkspawn during the second Blight (from 1:5 Divine to 1:95 Divine). Kordillus Drakon I died of old age in 1:45 Divine and was succeeded by his son Kordillus Drakon II.
His wife Area was known for archery skills, not her beauty or charm. However, Kordilius was no charmer himself, he was known for his sword and shield. Legend has it that when he witnessed Area shoot the wings off a bumblebee he was smitten.
On the day of their wedding he presented her with the Bow of the Golden Sun so that together they could ride into battle and spread the word of the Maker together.
Trivia
- Drakon is probably at least partly inspired by the Emperor Charlemagne, who conquered most of western Europe in the late 700s AD. Charlemagne is remembered for reuniting Europe for the first time since the fall of the Roman Empire, for Christianizing much of pagan Europe, and for empowering the Catholic Church. These events are paralleled in Drakon's military leadership, organizing of the Chantry, raising Orlais to a power status equal to Tevinter (as Charlemagne's kingdom rivaled Byzantium), and incorporating the Anderfels (analogous to Saxon Germany).