Introducing the Characters from Crystals of Ulstra
Gerda‘s older sister Tondra was the first character I envisioned from Zirkono Minado, but the adventurous crystal seeker came soon after. As their story became more and more central to the story, I realized that Gerda was actually the POV character, not Tondra like I’d first imagined.
Gerda is strong-willed and quick-witted. They are a free spirit who rejects rigid social binaries and oppressive, arbitrary rules. They are a natural leader in the mines; they also strive to be a steward of the environment.
Gerda’s portrait was the first art I commissioned from Frejj—and it only took one for me to realize I’d found the perfect artist to illustrate Ulstra. Seeing one of my favorite characters come to life was a surreal experience. This portrait perfectly captures Gerda’s sense of curiosity and wonder.
An Interview with Gerda
Part of an interview with Gerda Etagemo, Crystal Seeker of Zirkono Minado
Recorded by a librarian scribe at Zirkono Minado shortly before the war
How long have you been a crystal seeker?
The gift runs in my family. My mother was a seeker before me. I started leading expeditions in the mines as soon as I had finished with school.
What kinds of gems are commonly found near Zirkono Minado?
We call a very generous mountain range, the Zipo Montoj, home. I don’t mean it’s particularly hospitable, just that it offers us a bounty. Fluorite is most abundant, which Mago use for healing and recharging. A bit less common is rose quartz, which the Gardistona embed in their armor.
What are your biggest strengths?
Give me a problem, and I can usually find a solution. I’m witty sometimes.
And what are your weaknesses?
I’m not always the quickest at making decisions. I am easily distracted.
Who is your best friend or the person who trust the most?
That would be my sister Tondra. She is a Gardistona captain. We’re very different from each other, but we both inherited resourcefulness and resilience from our mother. We are constantly making each other laugh. I know I can trust her with my life—and she can trust me with hers too.
Are you religious, spiritual, or agnostic?
I believe in the gods of the mountains, like we all do at Zirkono Minado.
Where is your favorite place you’ve traveled?
If I’m honest, I haven’t been much further than Cevali. I thoroughly indulge whenever I’m in the free city—a bit of gambling never hurt. As for traveling, I’d love to see the rest of the world someday. Perhaps I will.
What is the finest meal you’ve eaten in the past month?
Last week, Tondra and I skipped the dining hall and cooked our own meal: white potato soup, grilled asparagus, fresh spinach, and sourdough.
Do you hold any strong political beliefs?
If I did, I wouldn’t share them in an interview.
What is most valuable to you?
Freedom.
Did you enjoy getting to know Gerda? Stay tuned for the next installment of the People of Ulstra series introducing a new character from the book!
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