Nikephoros Bryennios

Nikephoros Bryennios (Νικηφόρος Βρυέννιος, Latinized as  Nicephorus Bryennius, 1062–1137) was a Byzantine general, statesman and historian. Distinguished for his learning, personal beauty, and engaging qualities, Bryennios gained the favor of Emperor Alexios I Komnenos and the hand of his daughter Anna Komnene, receiving the titles of Caesar and panhypersebastos (one of the new dignities introduced by Alexios). Bryennios was on very friendly terms with Alexios' heir, John II Komnenos, and refused to join an 1118 cabal that sought to disinherit John from the crown.

Nikephoros Bryennios in "Suffer a Sorceress"
Nikephoros Bryennios, husband of Princess Anna Komnene, was regarded by her as having no political skill, despite his strength. Thus, he was the ideal puppet whom she intended to install as Emperor under her supervision.

As Anna's father Emperor Alexios was in his final illness in 1118, Anna made her move, using a witching spell to control Alexios' mind and cause him to disinherit his son Prince John.