Will I benefit from Charlemagne DLC If I don't play with any of those characters?

I am thinking about purchasing the Charlemagne DlC for Crusader Kings 2. However I am not very much interested in playing with Charlemagne (or his brother or whoever the dlc adds). I am more interested in the additional features.
Will I be able to benefit from this DLC if I don't play as any of those characters?
I'm mostly interested in the chronicles feature. Linked to this question.. New cultures, seasonal transitions and regency overhaul sound interesting too along with the earlier start date. I assume I can benefit from these even if I don't follow the Charlemagne story. Will I get Charlemagne related events if I play with someone else entirely?
Another way to word my question is Are these benefits limited to the Charlemagne story or separate?
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