The Emperor had been vague on who his successor should be, the only two obvious biological candidates being either too young or mentally incapable. This resulted in a long period of regency with a weak dual monarchy. This gave the Diadochi time to try to consolidate their power. Alexander's military brilliance and charisma were difficult for his successors to imitate, and they lacked his grand ambitions. However, they still did their best to imitate him in order to claim the greatest power and territory possible. Under the guise of preserving the unity of the empire and Argead's rule, the successors formed coalitions to oppose all those who seemed on the verge of taking full control of the state, but who wanted to. reality power for themselves. For many years, the Diadochi maintained the illusion of wanting to restore the empire under the Argead dynasty out of loyalty. Many Macedonians maintained great respect for Alexander's family and it was essential to appease these admirers. Only after the Diadochi had sufficiently consolidated their power did they assume the title of king in 306 and 305. Military success itself was essential to maintaining authority but also to acquiring the treasure necessary to purchase the soldier's favors and perform grandiose gestures of wealth such as parties to demonstrate their power. Successors paid great attention to