Heroes of ASTRONIMA
King Vesper Strell
Sir Kael Ithryn
Orion Noctis
???
Queen Melinoe
Commander Atlas Draevan
Sir Lucian Vale
???
Empress Pheobe Alaee
Prince Titus Alaee
Amaya Basu
Viktor Velmaris
Chief Barloc Kern
Zephyr Thorne
Caius Arel
???
Moria Mentos
Rhys Vreymorr
???
???
King Vesper Strell
"You’re staring at me like I’ve hung the stars. I assure you, I only arranged a few of them."
'The Starborn Monarch'
AGE: UNKNOWN
GENDER: MALE
HEIGHT: 6'2
King Vesper Strell is the wise and enigmatic ruler of Astrela, the Kingdom of Starlight. An immortal monarch who has lived for over a thousand years, Vesper maintains a youthful appearance despite his age, a testament to the arcane powers and cosmic forces that govern his realm. His presence exudes an aura of calm authority, with his demeanor often described as both playful and deeply thoughtful, a reflection of the paradox that is his eternal existence.As the monarch of Astrela, Vesper is not just a figurehead but a living repository of knowledge. His deep understanding of the stars and the arcane arts is unparalleled, and he has spent centuries accumulating wisdom, both magical and philosophical. He is a master of the mystic arts, often seen meditating under the night sky or consulting with the celestial bodies themselves for guidance. His magical prowess is vast, and he has the ability to manipulate starlight itself, shaping it into weapons, shields, or intricate spells.However, despite his wisdom and power, Vesper is not without a sense of mischief. He enjoys the games of the mind, often engaging in cryptic riddles or playful banter with those who visit his court. His humor and lightheartedness make him an approachable monarch, but those who underestimate him do so at their peril. Beneath his jovial exterior lies a ruler with a deep sense of responsibility and an iron will when it comes to the protection of his kingdom and its people.
empress pheobe alaee
"I didn’t fight to sit on a throne just to have men tell me how to rule. Titus tried to take this crown with blood, and others think they’ll take it with words. Let them try—I’m still here."
'The Radiant Flame'
AGE: 25
GENDER: FEMALE
HEIGHT: 5'8
Empress Phoebe Alaee of Solara is a figure of striking beauty, unwavering strength, and visionary leadership. As the first woman to ascend the throne of Solara, she carries the weight of both her position and the expectations placed upon her with a grace that belies her youth. Though young, Phoebe is fierce and resolute in her vision for Solara's future, unafraid to challenge the traditions and norms that have long defined her empire.Though young, Empress Phoebe is no stranger to the demands of leadership. She is headstrong, firm in her beliefs about what Solara needs to flourish, and unafraid to take bold action. Her ideas about the empire’s future often challenge established norms, particularly the traditional male-dominated systems that have ruled Solara for centuries. Phoebe seeks to bring a fresh perspective to Solara's governance—one that emphasizes the value of trade, artistry, and innovation, while also strengthening the empire’s alliances with other celestial realms. She envisions Solara not just as a beacon of power, but as a thriving center of culture, diplomacy, and progress.As the first woman to rule Solara, Phoebe is often seen as a symbol of change, and with this role comes both reverence and resistance. Some view her leadership with skepticism, seeing her as untested or inexperienced, but Phoebe refuses to be defined by her age or gender. She is quick to assert her authority and is often defensive of her role, fiercely guarding her place as empress against those who seek to undermine her or question her abilities. Her youthful appearance, while striking, does not mask her inner strength; rather, it amplifies the sharpness of her will and the passion with which she leads. Her defense of her reign is not born of insecurity, but of a deep commitment to proving that her leadership is just as worthy—and capable—as that of any ruler before her.
QUEEN MELINOE
"Every battle I’ve won is etched in blood—some of it mine, most of it theirs. It is a price I never forget."
'The Moonlit Shield'
AGE: Appears mid 30s GENDER: FEMALE
HEIGHT: 5'11
Queen Melinoe of Lunara is a monarch of profound strength, wisdom, and grace, known for her sharp mind and decisive leadership. As the ruler of the Kingdom of Moonlight, she embodies the qualities of fortitude and resilience that define her people. Melinoe is a queen who commands respect, not only through her martial prowess but also through her deep sense of duty to her kingdom and her people.Despite her angelic appearance, Melinoe is not a ruler of passivity or diplomacy alone; she is a queen forged in the fires of battle. Her wings, though awe-inspiring, are not just a symbol of beauty—they are a formidable instrument of war, allowing her to command the skies with the same strength and precision as her warriors command the land. She is an expert tactician, with a deep understanding of both strategy and human nature, able to read situations with remarkable clarity. Under her leadership, Lunara’s military is unmatched, known for its discipline, strength, and unwavering loyalty. Her decisions, though carefully measured, are never weak; they are decisive, often swift, and always in service of Lunara’s security and prosperity.Though she leads with strength, Melinoe’s leadership is also tempered by a deep compassion for her people. Her care for her citizens is evident in the way she personally oversees matters of state, ensuring that justice is upheld, and that her people are safe, cared for, and heard. Melinoe does not see herself as distant or above those she leads; she views herself as a guardian of Lunara, someone who must protect not just its borders but the hearts and minds of her people. This nurturing side, while perhaps unexpected in such a powerful leader, endears her to the Lunarians, who admire her not only for her ability to lead on the battlefield but for her dedication to their well-being.
chief barloc kern
"They call us monsters, but they’re the ones who left us to die. Who’s the real monster here?"
'The Wingless Reaver'
AGE: appears mid-50s
GENDER: Male HEIGHT: 6'4
Barloc Kern was born in the luminous capital of Lunara, destined for greatness among his people. From an early age, he exhibited exceptional skill in combat and an unyielding loyalty to the ideals of Lunara: discipline, honor, and fortitude. He rose quickly through the ranks of Lunara’s military, earning the trust of Queen Melinoe herself. Their bond was forged on the battlefield, where Kern served as her unwavering second-in-command. Together, they led Lunara’s armies to countless victories, their unity a beacon of strength for the kingdom. Though a man of few words, Kern’s actions spoke volumes. He was not just a commander; he was a protector, a mentor, and a friend. Queen Melinoe often relied on him, not only for his strategic brilliance but also for his grounded perspective. Their camaraderie was legendary, a bond that seemed unbreakable.Kern’s life changed forever when the Plague of Null began to seep into Lunara. The infection spread rapidly, its victims falling into darkness and losing their light. Kern took it upon himself to lead Lunara’s forces against the raids of the infected, defending the kingdom with the same resolve that had defined his career. But fate was cruel. During a skirmish near Lunara’s borders, Kern was wounded by an infected blade. At first, he dismissed the injury as minor, unwilling to leave the battlefield. It wasn’t until the veins near the wound began to blacken, and his silver eyes showed faint traces of red, that the truth became clear—Kern had been infected.News of Kern’s infection devastated Queen Melinoe. She tried to find a cure, exhausting every resource Lunara had, but the Plague’s grip was unrelenting. As Kern’s condition worsened, he began to lose control, the hunger for light gnawing at his mind. Melinoe, faced with an impossible choice, made the decision to sever his wings—a symbolic and literal act of cutting him off from Lunara.The Kern that emerged in Oscura was no longer the loyal soldier of Lunara. Stripped of his wings and burdened by the Plague, he was consumed by rage and bitterness. The barren, icy expanse of Oscura was filled with others like him—lost, desperate, and forsaken. But where others fell to despair, Kern found purpose. He rallied the infected, uniting them under the banner of the Veil of Hunger, a militant faction dedicated to survival and vengeance. Kern instilled the discipline of his Lunarian roots into his new army, turning them into a force to be reckoned with. For Kern, the Veil was more than a faction—it was his new family, his chance to rebuild what had been taken from him.
SIR KAEL ITHRYN
"I’ve pulled Vesper out of trouble more times than I can count. To his credit, he usually says thank you. Usually."
'The Starblade'
AGE: 1000+
GENDER: MALE
HEIGHT: 6'2
Despite his role as a knight, Kael is not defined solely by his martial prowess. He is a man of profound thought, often contemplating the philosophical and moral questions that arise from the decisions he and Vesper must make. When asked, he offers Vesper measured advice, his words rooted in both logic and compassion. However, Kael has little interest in the political machinations of court life, preferring to leave such complexities to those who find joy in them. His focus is singular: to protect Vesper and ensure the safety of Astrela, whether through the blade, strategy, or insight.Kael and Vesper’s bond is one of deep mutual respect and understanding. While Vesper’s playful, sometimes mercurial nature contrasts with Kael’s calm and steady demeanor, the two complement each other perfectly. Vesper often teases Kael, knowing his friend’s stoic nature can withstand the ribbing. Kael, in turn, responds with dry wit or a knowing smirk, never failing to keep the king grounded in moments of levity. Their shared history is a tapestry of battles fought side by side, philosophical debates held under starry skies, and silent companionship during the kingdom’s darkest hours.Kael’s sense of duty extends beyond mere loyalty; he believes deeply in Vesper’s vision for Astrela. While he would never seek to impose his views unbidden, he is unafraid to speak candidly when he feels his perspective is needed. His rare but carefully chosen input carries great weight, as it is rooted in a profound understanding of both Vesper’s heart and the kingdom’s needs.
PRINCE TITUS ALAEE
"Every moment we let the Plague victims breathe is a moment we put the rest of us at risk. The answer is simple: eradicate them."
'The Heir that Never Was'
AGE: 29
GENDER: MALE
HEIGHT: 6'5
Prince Titus Alaee is a volatile and deeply embittered figure within the Solar Empire. Born as the first child to the imperial family, Titus grew up closely beside his sister, Pheobe. While the throne traditionally favored male heirs, Phoebe's exceptional leadership qualities and vision earned her the crown upon their father, Emperor Calyx's death, a decision that Titus perceived as an insult to tradition and his birthright. This perceived betrayal has festered into an intense hatred for his sister and the system that upheld her.Titus is zealous, driven by an almost obsessive sense of entitlement and an unwavering belief in the strength of traditional rule. He embodies a dangerous charisma, capable of inspiring others to follow his radical ideals despite his recklessness. However, his temper and uncompromising worldview have always been his downfall, preventing him from gaining the trust of those who might have supported his claim. His fiery rhetoric, while inspiring, often borders on madness, advocating extreme measures that alienate even his staunchest allies.After his failed coup and assassination attempt on Phoebe, Titus was deemed too dangerous to execute publicly, for fear of martyring him. Instead, he was imprisoned in the depths of Solara’s dungeons, bound in chains to suppress any further rebellion. His captivity has only deepened his hatred, as he sees his sister’s reign as a blight upon the empire—a usurpation that he believes must be corrected at all costs.
COMMANDER ATLAS DRAEVAN
"I’m not a hard man to please. Just survive, succeed, and stop whining."
'The Forgekeeper'
Age: appears late 20s
GENDER: Male
HEIGHT: 6'3
Atlas Draevan, known widely as "The Forgekeeper," is a legendary figure in Lunara, commanding the Valyrion Forge, the kingdom's most grueling and prestigious training camp. His reputation precedes him as both a ruthless taskmaster and an unmatched tactician, responsible for producing Lunara’s finest soldiers. His white hair is kept short, spiky, and perpetually disheveled, and his glowing blue eyes set him apart—a faint, ethereal hue that seems to pierce through even the bravest cadets. Atlas carries himself with a mix of aloof arrogance and quiet menace, rarely raising his voice but always commanding respect.Atlas Draevan and Queen Melinoe have a long-standing friendship that began during their shared time as trainees in Lunara’s military. While Atlas is known for his cocky and aloof demeanor, Melinoe often finds herself exasperated by his antics, viewing him as a foolish younger brother at times. Despite this dynamic, their relationship is one of deep loyalty and respect, forged through years of fighting side by side and navigating the challenges of Lunara together. Their connection remains a cornerstone of their personal and professional lives, with Melinoe trusting Atlas implicitly as both a comrade and confidant. Atlas has gotten into trouble with Melinoe, acknowledging her as queen while occasionally treating her like the sparring partner she once was—a dynamic that can both amuse and frustrate the court. But Melinoe knows he’s no threat to her or Lunara’s monarchy. They consider themselves the best of friends, almost as an older sister and younger brother.As the head of the Valyrion Forge, Atlas is both a gatekeeper and a crucible. He takes cadets, strips them of their weaknesses, and forges them into warriors who can stand against even the horrors of the Plague of Null. His methods are harsh but effective, and he maintains an almost paternal protectiveness over his trainees, though he rarely shows it outright. Atlas believes that survival is the ultimate act of loyalty to Lunara and that softness has no place in their ranks. Atlas harbors a simmering hatred for the Plague of Null, seeing it not only as a threat to Lunara but as a test of everything he stands for. He knows that the infection corrupts even the strongest, and this knowledge fuels his obsession with discipline and control. In his eyes, survival in the face of such horror requires absolute strength—physical, mental, and emotional.
CAIUS AREL
"I don’t know if I’ll win this fight, but as long as I can resist, I’m still me. And that’s enough for now."
'The Defiant Ember'
AGE: 23
GENDER: MALE
HEIGHT: 5'11
Caius Arel was born to a simple merchant family in Solara, where he learned the art of trade and negotiation from a young age. His parents ran a small but well-respected store in the heart of the bustling capital, dealing in fine fabrics, rare spices, and other goods that flowed from the distant corners of the empire. Caius grew up with an appreciation for the finer things in life, learning how to haggle with the best of them and how to charm both buyers and sellers with a smile.But the Plague of Null changed everything. As the sickness spread across Solara and beyond, Caius watched his friends and neighbors fall ill, their light dimming until nothing remained. The kingdom was on the brink, and no one seemed able to stop it. In the face of the growing darkness, Caius couldn't just stand by. He felt an overwhelming sense of duty to do something, to protect his home. When the war began, he enlisted in the kingdom's guard, determined to fight for the future he once dreamed of, to protect his people from the very plague that was consuming them.Though Caius had never been a soldier, his quick wit and natural agility made him a valuable asset. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming skilled with a blade and fiercely dedicated to his duties. He took pride in being one of the kingdom’s defenders—delivering medical supplies to villages, fending off raids from Chief Kern’s forces, and doing his best to keep the plague at bay.But despite his efforts, Caius couldn’t outrun the Plague of Null. During a brutal battle, after days of fighting and exhaustion, he felt it—the telltale signs of the plague infecting him. His golden eyes, once full of life, began to turn red, the unmistakable mark of the cursed transformation. He knew what it meant. He knew he would soon be driven to feed on the light of the living, as so many others had.Unable to reconcile his fate, Caius made the painful decision to leave everything behind. He fled Solara, unable to face the one person he loved most—his partner. He couldn’t risk losing control and becoming a monster. He could not bear the thought of harming them.Even if it meant losing everything, even if it meant standing alone, Caius Arel would fight with what little light he had left—fighting for a world that had turned its back on him, even if he didn’t fully understand why. Though it would become all too important once it came time to end the Plague, once and for all.
orion noctis
"I wasn’t trying to play god—I was trying to understand one."
'The Pariah of the Cosmos'
AGE: 900+
GENDER: MALE
HEIGHT: 6'1
Orion Noctis was once a revered Astral Sage of Astrela, celebrated for his brilliance and unyielding curiosity. Born beneath the shimmering constellations of the celestial kingdom, he grew up immersed in the pursuit of knowledge. With his stark white hair and piercing violet eyes, Orion was a true Astrelian—a beacon of intellect and potential. His natural affinity for magic set him apart even among the scholars of the kingdom, earning him the attention of King Vesper Strell himself. Together, they pushed the boundaries of what was possible, unraveling mysteries of the cosmos and strengthening Astrela’s magical foundation.But Orion’s ambition knew no bounds. The vast libraries of Astrela provided endless knowledge, but one subject remained tantalizingly out of reach: the magic of Bela, the goddess of destruction. While most Astrelians viewed Bela’s power as dangerous and taboo, Orion saw it as misunderstood—a force that, if wielded correctly, could bring balance and renewal. He became obsessed, poring over forbidden texts and conducting secret experiments in the depths of the Astral Academy.For decades, his work remained unnoticed. But one experiment changed everything. Orion attempted to harness a fragment of Bela’s essence, believing he could contain and study it safely. The ritual went catastrophically wrong. The experiment was not just a failure—it was a disaster that left lives in its wake. The memory of the destruction lingers with him, a shadow that darkens even his brightest thoughts. He hadn’t anticipated the full force of Bela’s magic. He believed he could contain it, harness it, and prove that destruction was merely the first step to creation. What he unleashed instead was chaos, a surge of energy that ripped through the Astral Academy.The explosion shattered more than just walls; it tore apart families, ended friendships, and extinguished lives. Young mages who had looked up to Orion, scholars who had debated philosophy and magic at his side—all gone in an instant. The survivors bore not just physical scars but a deep distrust of magic they once revered.Vesper, devastated by the betrayal of trust, confronted Orion personally. The two had a heated argument that echoed through the halls of the Astral Academy. Vesper accused Orion of recklessness and hubris, while Orion defended his actions as a necessary risk for progress. In the end, Vesper had no choice. For the safety of the kingdom, he cast Orion out, stripping him of his titles and exiling him from the arcane society he had once called home.
sir lucian vale
“The sky may not welcome me, but the ground has never betrayed me. I will carve my place here, where I stand.”
'The Grounded Valkyrie'
AGE: appears EARLY 20s GENDER: MALE HEIGHT: 6'0
Lucian was born in the capital city of Lunara, the child of a Lunaran officer and a Solaran diplomat. His birth was a point of contention between the two kingdoms, symbolizing a fragile attempt at unity during tense times. From the moment he opened his silver, glowing eyes, he was scrutinized—not for his potential, but for what he lacked. Unlike every other Lunaran, Lucian was born without wings.For many Lunarians, wings were more than a physical trait; they were a manifestation of divine favor, a symbol of their celestial heritage. Without them, Lucian’s legitimacy as a Lunaran was constantly questioned. Despite his father’s attempts to shield him from the disdain of others, the whispers followed him everywhere: “The groundbound child,” “The wingless one,” “An omen of imbalance.”By the time he was old enough to enlist in Lunara’s military, Lucian had honed a steely resolve. While his peers took to the skies, he remained earthbound, mastering ground combat and tactical maneuvers with a precision that eventually caught the attention of Commander Atlas Draevan.Atlas was one of the few who saw past Lucian’s lack of wings. The Commander recognized the fire in the young soldier—a quiet determination born of years of ridicule and exclusion. Atlas took Lucian under his wing, so to speak, mentoring him personally in tactics, strategy, and leadership.In the field, Lucian quickly became indispensable. While winged soldiers dominated aerial combat, Lucian operated on the ground, securing footholds and ensuring the survival of those above. His ability to stay calm under pressure earned him respect from many of his comrades, though some still questioned his place among them.“You’ve got something they don’t,” Atlas once told him after a grueling campaign. “You understand what it’s like to be doubted, dismissed. That’s your strength. You fight harder because you have more to prove.”Atlas became both a mentor and a brother figure to Lucian, stepping into a role that his biological parents had failed to fulfill. While Lucian’s father had always been a distant figure, preoccupied with his own duties, and his mother had returned to Solara long ago, Atlas offered guidance without judgment.Lucian’s journey was far from easy, but over time, he became a symbol of resilience within the Lunaran military. Soldiers who once mocked him began to see him as an equal, and those who doubted his loyalty learned to trust his judgment. Yet, Lucian never sought their approval. He fought for something greater—for the idea that strength could take many forms and that worth was not defined by appearance or lineage.
moria mentos
“They see me as a child. But I’ve buried more people than they’ll ever know. I’ve seen more endings than beginnings.”
'The Warden of the Forgotten'
AGE:22
GENDER: FEMALE
HEIGHT: 5'6
(Native Oscurans have shorter lifespans than the Celestial Courts. The average life expectancy is 60 to 70 years old.)
Once, long before the whispers of plague reached the outer kingdoms, Oscura was a land of quiet shadow, an enigmatic haven nestled within a tundra of endless frost. Its people lived in harmony with the dark, their milky-white eyes seeing far more than the light-blinded kingdoms could ever understand. They thrived in their isolation, crafting beauty from stone and shadow, their lives a testament to resilience. For centuries, the gates of Oscura remained closed, its mysteries sealed against the curiosity of outsiders. And so it was, until the Plague of Null swept across the planes.The sickness began eighteen years ago, an invisible predator that hollowed the brightest lights of Astronima. Solara’s golden fields dimmed, Lunara’s moonlit halls grew quieter, and even the starlit archives of Astrela shuddered as their people fell one by one to the plague. But Oscura? It remained untouched. Where the light faded in other lands, the shadows of Oscura stood firm. And so, for the first time in centuries, emissaries from the outer kingdoms crossed the tundra and knocked on Oscura’s gates, their pleas for sanctuary carried on trembling lips.It was Priest Orpheus Mentos, leader of the Oscuran council, who opened the gates. His decision, though compassionate, was met with unease by many of his people. Among them was his daughter, Moria, then only four years old. She watched from her perch in the temple as the first plague victims entered Oscura, their eyes dim and their steps faltering. To her young mind, they were specters—silent and strange, their lightless gazes haunting her dreams. Yet, she saw how her father knelt before them, how he offered them shelter and dignity when the rest of the world had cast them aside. Even then, Moria understood: in Oscura, there was no place for cruelty, only for balance.As the years passed, the plague did not touch Oscura, but its consequences seeped into every corner of their lives. The once-thriving tundra became a refuge for the banished, those whose light had been stolen but who still breathed. Oscurans became caretakers of the forgotten, their rituals evolving to honor those who would never return to the lives they once knew. It was during this time that Moria’s path began to take shape. Under her father’s watchful eye, she learned the ancient rites of their goddess, Bela—the misunderstood deity of destruction and transformation.By the time she turned sixteen, Moria was fully immersed in her role as a cleric. She walked the frozen fields to perform funeral rites for the plague’s victims, her voice steady as she whispered prayers to guide them into Bela’s embrace. Yet, she could not ignore the whispers of discontent among her people. Some Oscurans resented the presence of the exiled, fearing that their lands would be overrun by outsiders who neither understood nor respected their ways. Moria often stood in quiet defiance of these fears, her father’s teachings echoing in her mind: “Compassion is not weakness, my child. It is the shadow of strength.”When Moria was twenty, her father passed away, the weight of leadership shifting to her far sooner than she had expected. Though young, she carried herself with the quiet determination of someone who had seen too much to be anything but resolute. The rituals she once performed under her father’s guidance became hers alone to bear. Each prayer, each burial, was a reminder of the delicate balance she was sworn to uphold. It was a lonely path, but one she accepted with grace.Now twenty-two, Moria stands as a figure of quiet authority in Oscura. Known as The Warden of the Forgotten, she is both a guardian and a guide for those who arrive at Oscura’s gates, hollowed by the plague and desperate for solace. Her faith in Bela remains unshaken, even as the outer kingdoms continue to blame the goddess for the plague’s existence. To Moria, Bela is not a harbinger of doom, but a force of necessary change—a reminder that from every ending comes the promise of renewal.Still, there are nights when the tundra’s silence feels heavier than it should, when the cries of the exiled echo in her mind long after the winds have carried them away. On those nights, Moria stands at the temple’s threshold, her white eyes reflecting the faint glow of Oscura’s ever-shadowed moon, and whispers to the goddess she serves: “Give me the strength to carry their grief, as you have carried mine.”And so, Moria Mentos continues her vigil in the heart of the tundra, a cleric of shadows in a world that fears the dark, her story interwoven with the fate of a kingdom that embraces what others cannot bear to face.
Zephyr Thorne
"There’s no shame in taking what you want. The world doesn’t give; it takes, so I will too."
'The Revenant of Null'
AGE: 29 GENDER: MALE HEIGHT: 6'6
Zephyr Thorne was born into poverty in the outskirts of Solara, far from the gleaming marble cities and golden roofs of its heart. His childhood was harsh, shaped by hunger, struggle, and an unrelenting need to survive. From a young age, Zephyr learned that strength and wit were his greatest assets in a world that offered little else. When he was barely fifteen, he left his home behind, drawn to the life of a mercenary—a path that promised coin, freedom, and power.As a mercenary, Zephyr quickly earned a reputation for his efficiency and ruthlessness. He was cunning, calculating, and utterly pragmatic, taking on contracts that others deemed too dangerous. To him, every battle was a means to an end: wealth, reputation, and the assurance that no one would ever see him as weak again. Though he worked alongside others, Zephyr never fully trusted anyone. Betrayal, he believed, was simply a matter of time.Everything changed when Zephyr accepted a contract to escort a caravan carrying magical artifacts through contested territory near Oscura. Unbeknownst to him, the cargo included a relic tainted with the Plague of Null. A skirmish erupted, and during the fight, the relic shattered, releasing its cursed energy. Zephyr was exposed, along with the others in his group. While most succumbed quickly, their bodies fading into lifeless husks, Zephyr clung to life through sheer willpower.The infection didn’t kill him, but it changed him irrevocably. His eyes turned red, glowing faintly in the dark, and his veins took on a shadowy gray hue. The plague severed his connection to Solara’s radiant light, leaving him hollowed out and filled with a dark, unrelenting hunger. Worse, he was now marked—a visible reminder of the plague’s curse.Upon returning to Solara, he found himself shunned. His former employers turned their backs on him, and his contracts dried up. To the Solaran elite, Zephyr Thorne was no longer a mercenary; he was a liability, a walking symbol of death and decay. Cast out and betrayed, he wandered aimlessly, a man with no future.Zephyr’s wanderings eventually led him to Oscura, a land where the exiled and infected were sent to die. But in Oscura, Zephyr found something he hadn’t expected: purpose. The land’s harshness mirrored his own bitterness, and its people—survivors of both the Plague of Null and the world’s indifference—stirred a reluctant respect within him.He encountered Chief Barloc Kern, the leader of the Veil of Hunger, and the two clashed immediately. Kern saw Zephyr’s potential but was wary of his arrogance and insubordination. Zephyr, in turn, admired Kern’s strength but bristled at his authority. Despite their differences, Kern recognized the value of Zephyr’s combat skills and tactical mind. Slowly, Zephyr rose through the ranks, earning his place as Kern’s second-in-command.
Amaya basu
"What I see is not a guarantee, but a warning. The future bends with every breath we take, every step we choose."
'Oracle of Halcyon Keep'
AGE: 26GENDER: FEMALEHEIGHT: 5'6
Amaya Basu was born into a lineage steeped in mysticism and prophecy, her family revered as the oracle-keepers of Solara. Her mother, a renowned seer, and her father, a humble scholar, served as trusted advisors to Emperor Calyx Alaee, the father of Phoebe and Titus. Amaya grew up in the opulent halls of Halcyon Keep, where the golden light of Solara’s sun bathed every corner. Her childhood was entwined with the royal siblings, sharing their lessons, games, and triumphs.From a young age, Amaya displayed extraordinary gifts. Her golden eyes, so characteristic of Solara’s people, seemed to shimmer with a knowing light. While other children played, she often joined her father in the library, poring over scrolls and absorbing the histories of Solara and its gods. Her innate connection to the divine currents of time and fate set her apart, both a source of pride for her family and a burden for Amaya herself.Growing up alongside Phoebe and Titus, Amaya found herself in a delicate position. Though they were her closest companions, the knowledge of their destinies often weighed heavily on her. Her unique role as an oracle meant that while she shared their childhood joys, she also bore the responsibility of interpreting the signs and visions that could shape their futures. Despite this, her bond with Phoebe deepened into a sister-like friendship, built on trust and shared secrets. With Titus, her relationship was more strained; his ambition and jealousy often clashed with Amaya’s quiet wisdom.Amaya’s life took a dramatic turn at the age of fifteen when she experienced a vision that shook her to her core. In it, she saw Phoebe lying wounded on the marble floor of Halcyon Keep, a shadowy figure standing over her with a bloodied dagger. The vision was vivid and urgent, but it did not come to pass immediately. For ten years, Amaya carried the weight of this foreseen betrayal, watching as Titus’s resentment and ambitions festered. Though she tried to warn Phoebe, her warnings were tempered by the uncertainty of when the vision would occur, leaving the future Empress skeptical but trusting in Amaya’s intentions.Finally, on the fateful night foretold in her vision, Amaya burst into Phoebe’s chambers just in time to see Prince Titus, Phoebe’s younger brother, poised to strike. Without hesitation, Amaya tackled him to the ground, wrestling the dagger from his hand. Guards flooded the room moments later, securing Titus and saving Phoebe’s life.Though Phoebe was gravely injured, Amaya’s actions had spared her from a fatal blow. The aftermath solidified Amaya’s place in Phoebe’s life. During Phoebe’s long recovery, Amaya remained by her side, offering comfort and counsel. The ordeal forged a bond of trust and loyalty between them that nothing could break. From that day forward, Amaya became more than an oracle; she became the Empress’s confidante, protector, and closest friend.In the years that followed, Amaya stepped fully into her role as a royal advisor. Her visions guided Phoebe through countless challenges, from political intrigue to external threats against Solara. Yet the weight of her gift often wore heavily on her. Amaya’s prophecies were rarely straightforward, leaving her to navigate the murky waters of destiny. The burden of deciding whether to act or let events unfold naturally haunted her, though she kept this inner struggle hidden from all but Phoebe.Amaya’s veil became her signature during this time. Crafted from intricate lacework of gold and deep crimson, it served both as a symbol of her role and a barrier between herself and the world. Some whispered that the veil allowed her to see deeper into the threads of fate, while others believed it shielded her from the overwhelming emotions of those around her. Amaya never revealed the truth, preferring to let the mystery endure.Now in her late twenties, Amaya Basu is a figure of quiet strength and enigmatic wisdom. Though she is revered for her prophetic abilities, it is her unwavering loyalty to Empress Phoebe that defines her. Together, they navigate the challenges of ruling Solara, their bond a testament to the power of trust, resilience, and friendship. Amaya remains a guiding light in Phoebe’s life, her visions both a gift and a curse that she bears with grace and determination.
RHYS VREYMORR
"If you ever hear me say ‘it can’t get worse,’ remind me how last time the greenhouse pipes exploded. Twice."
'The Greenwarden'
AGE: 30
GENDER: male
HEIGHT: 6'4
The first thing Rhys Vreymorr remembered was the quiet hum of the greenhouses. His mother’s songs filled the air as she worked, her hands steady as they guided his smaller ones to sow the seeds. "This soil is life," she would say, patting the earth with practiced care. "It doesn’t look like much, but it holds the future of Oscura in it."His father had always been more pragmatic. "Life needs protection, Rhys," he’d say, showing him how to repair the delicate shadow-infused pipes that carried warmth and nutrients to the crops. "If you can’t guard what you build, someone will take it from you."Rhys’s parents worked the greenhouses tirelessly, one of the few families entrusted with Oscura’s fragile food production. To outsiders, the idea of growing anything in a land perpetually cloaked in twilight seemed impossible, but Oscurans had long ago learned to weave shadow magic into their craft. For years, the greenhouses stood as a symbol of resilience—a beacon of hope in a world otherwise consumed by cold and hunger.But hope, Rhys learned, was as fragile as the glass panels that shielded their crops.The raid came without warning. Rhys was twelve, crouched behind a stack of empty crates, clutching a broken piece of pipe as his father shouted for him to stay hidden. The attackers—hollowed plague victims driven mad by hunger—broke through the greenhouse’s barriers, their desperate cries echoing in the frostbitten air."Stay back!" his father roared, wielding a hoe with shadow magic coursing along its length. For a moment, it looked like he might hold them off, like the greenhouses might survive the chaos. Then the blade of a scavenged sword pierced his chest, and everything unraveled.Rhys didn’t cry out. He didn’t move. He simply stared, frozen, as the man who had taught him everything crumpled to the ground. By the time Oscura’s defenders arrived to drive the raiders away, the damage was done. The crops were ruined, the barriers shattered, and his father was gone.The days after the raid were a blur. Rhys’s mother threw herself into rebuilding what they could, and Rhys followed suit, too numb to grieve. It wasn’t until he saw her hands trembling—raw and blistered from endless work—that he realized the weight of their survival had shifted entirely onto them. There was no one else to take it up.So he learned. He learned how to patch the greenhouse pipes with strips of enchanted metal, how to coax life from the soil when the shadows threatened to choke it, and how to wield the same shadow magic his father had once used to protect them. His mother taught him everything she knew, and Rhys absorbed it all like the soil drank water. Together, they rebuilt, piece by fragile piece.But the raids didn’t stop. As Oscura became a haven for plague victims, the desperate attacks grew more frequent, and it became clear that the greenhouses needed more than magic to survive. They needed someone willing to fight.By the time he reached his twenties, Rhys had become a quiet force within Oscura. His days were spent maintaining the greenhouses, but his nights were devoted to training. With the help of Oscura’s few remaining fighters, he honed his skills, crafting a glaive that combined the precision of shadow magic with the brutal efficiency of steel. He rallied a small band of defenders, farmers turned warriors, who shared his commitment to protecting their fragile lifeline.Though his life was filled with hardship, Rhys refused to let bitterness take root. Instead, he embraced a philosophy of levity, believing that laughter and hope were as essential as the food he worked to grow. He became known for his jokes and tall tales, his cheerful demeanor as unyielding as the tundra winds.
Viktor Velmaris
“I have bent the teachings, yes, but only because they were too rigid for the world we live in. Ammar would understand.”
'Ammar's Shepard'
AGE: 54
GENDER: MALE
HEIGHT: 6'2