Vladimir Alecto was a extraordinary successful warlord who managed to re-unite to defend the Known Worlds from rampaging barbarian invaders. Upon being crowned in 4550 he mysteriously burned alive. The guilty parties were never identified. As the Known Worlds were increasingly victims of invasions and raid by barbarians. Vladimir, the leader of House Alecto, united several factions under his banner. His armies fought and defeated the invaders and successfully reclaimed several planets. After the war he claimed the planets whose owners had not aided the campaign.