Part 1: The Throne, Pages 26-37 Summary and Analysis

The first hour the Emperor spent at the palace was known as the Hour of Assignments, because it was during this time that he handed out appointments, promotions, and demotions. The Emperor's intentions were always veiled with uncertainty. One never knew if he would receive a new promotion which would mean a dramatic increase in income or if one would be fired and penniless. The anxiety created by this helped feed the flames of faction. The Emperor tolerated, even encouraged, his subordinates to organize into factions and he carefully, though invisibly, managed them, to make sure none got too powerful. By keeping a balance of power among them, he protected his own reign.

One of the chief themes of the Emperor's rule was loyalty. He demanded loyalty from everyone. In fact, many of...