Introducing the Characters from Crystals of Ulstra

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I have a strong feeling that Delfen will be a favorite character for a lot of readers of Crystals of Ulstra. Delfen is a supporting character, but he’s integral to the story.

He’s funny, big-hearted, and a prime example of healthy masculinity. He is Koralo‘s best friend and chosen brother. He is a forest guardian and a trained Kavaliro soldier. When he and Koralo are thrust into a mad king’s war on the other side of the world, Delfen is faced with a monumental decision that could forever change his family’s fate.

Delfen’s portrait, crafted by the super talented Frejj, offers such a clear insight into Delfen as a character. I am forever and always thankful that serendipity led me to the perfect artist to visualize the people of Ulstra. If you’re an author or a world-builder, I can’t recommend working with Frejj on your character portraits enough. Just do it!

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An Interview with Delfen

Fragments of a conversation with Delfen Marakvo, Kavaliro of Arbardio’s Grove
Recorded by a junior chronicler at Taumaturgio, sometime before the war

Where did you grow up?

I’m from Riverbordo, and I’m proud to come from a long line of forest folk.

How is your relationship with your family?

I wouldn’t be here today without my mother’s love. We’ve been through so much. We lost my father a few years ago, and it was difficult, but it brought us even closer in the end. And my best friend, Koralo, and his mother, Dianta, are part of our family, too.

Who do you trust most?

I trust Koralo. My mother. Generalo Mezu. Captain Napo. Maven Rubena.

What are your biggest strengths?

I consider myself brave. I don’t back down in the face of danger. I’m more than willing to lay down my life in defense of my home, my beliefs, and the people I love dearly.

And what are your weaknesses?

I am admittedly a bit vain and concerned with my own appearance—not the best use of my time. I can sometimes focus on the big picture at the expense of facts and details.

What do you desire most in life?

For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to earn my silver sword at Glavo Brilo someday. There is no accomplishment more meaningful for a Kavaliro of Ulstra.

What’s your favorite meal?

Give me anything with a potato in it and I’ll practically inhale it. I could eat a bowl of potato and nut-butter stew every day for the rest of my life. I also love fruit fritters.

What do you value most?

Honesty, loyalty, and the courage (and maturity) to admit when you’re wrong.

What is your biggest regret?

I wish I could have been there and somehow prevented my father’s death. I know it’s pointless to waste time thinking about that. It wasn’t my fault. But it’s still a regret.

What are your hopes for the future?

For myself? Besides earning my silver sword and being the kind of forest guardian my dad would be proud of… I want to have a family and children of my own someday.

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You have officially met Delfen, reader. You can get to know him even better in my debut novel Crystals of Ulstra, which I am targeting for self-publication this year.

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• Meet Koralo, the protagonist of Crystals of Ulstra.
• Meet Rubena, another main character of Crystals of Ulstra.
• Meet Gerda, another POV character in Crystals of Ulstra.
• Meet Lazuro, antagonist and POV character in Crystals of Ulstra.
• Learn more Crystals of Ulstra, including the characters and world.
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