Introducing the Characters from Crystals of Ulstra
(Artwork by Frejj)
I’m launching a new series on the blog called People of Ulstra—a deep dive into some of the main characters of my book, alongside their first portraits by Frejj, an incredible talent bringing my imaginings to life.
And it’s an exciting day for me, because I get to start the series by revealing more about the protagonist of Crystals of Ulstra: Koralo.
Koralo was the first character from Ulstra who introduced himself to me.
Before there was a mad king, a mountain fortress, or political intrigue at the Konsilio of Mago, there was a simple forest mage walking the paths of an enchanted grove with a crystal around his neck, emotion and magic humming inside him like a second heartbeat, and a leopard cat at his feet.
Koralo is the heart of this story. He is our first lens into Ulstra, and I can’t think of a better one. He embodies earned courage, an open heart, found family, and a love for the world and its people and animals. Koralo is the epitome of Ulstra and everything it means to be from this magical place.
An Interview with Koralo
Fragments of a conversation with Koralo Tajdo, Mago of Arbardio’s Grove
Recorded by a junior chronicler at Taumaturgio, sometime before the war
Where did you spend your youth?
I was born at home in Riverbordo, the quaint little village nestled deep in Arbardio’s Grove. It sits along the stream connecting Lago Grifo and Verdani Cove. You’d have to know where it was, or you’d never find it.
Are you close with your parents?
My father died when I was young. I’m very close with my mother. She still lives in Riverbordo where she operates the only restaurant in the forest. People travel for miles and miles for a taste of her home-style cooking.
What is your profession?
I’m a forest guardian. It’s my sacred duty to protect Arbardio’s Grove and the enchanted creatures within from poachers and royalist interlopers.
Who is your closest friend?
Without a doubt, it’s Delfen. We aren’t family by blood, but still brothers in every way that counts. He is my bonded Kavaliro and he serves as a forest guardian alongside me. Sometimes I think I’d be lost without him.
What is most valuable to you?
I value my loved ones, the forest, knowledge, love, and magic itself. I cherish my leopard cat companion, Stila, more than words can describe.
What was your proudest moment?
Matriculation Day at the Magiakademio. I’ve always believed I was smart, but I wasn’t what you’d call an academic. So it was an honor to earn my stripes as a Mago. You couldn’t have stolen the smile from me that day. After graduation, Delfen and I were invited to become forest guardians.
What is your romantic history?
I don’t want to get into every detail. I’ve known love—but it eludes me. Maybe one day I’ll meet the man of my dreams. (I won’t hold my breath.)
What’s your favorite meal?
If I had my way, I’d skip dinner and dive right into dessert. A triple berry pie and some kind of fruity, floral wine—pear, elderflower, or the like.
What are your hobbies?
Sparring with Delfen. Running the forest paths with Stila at my heels. More than anything, I enjoy reading any book I can get my hands on.
How would others describe you?
I’m a bit scattered. I bring healthy chaos to ordinary situations. I’m emotional. I hope they’d also say I’m kindhearted and a loyal friend.
Did you have fun getting to know Koralo? Stay tuned for the next installment of the People of Ulstra series introducing a new character!
- Learn more about Crystals of Ulstra.
- Meet Rubena, another main character in Crystals of Ulstra.
- Meet Gerda, another POV character in Crystals of Ulstra.
- Meet Lazuro, antagonist and POV character in Crystals of Ulstra.
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