With the installment of Byzantine Emperor Kantakouzenos, The Byzantine Civil War begins. Lasting until 1347, his ascension was questioned by so-call “Pretender”, John V. Losing thousands of men and territory, Kantakouzenos will be allowed to retire to a Monastery (and live out the remainder of his life).
Despite ”modern” terminology, a “Blasted” image in Heraldry refers to a Tree. The Tree when used as “Blasted” cannot show any leaves or foliage. This can mean “Deprivation” or “Winter”.