Introducing the Characters from Crystals of Ulstra
(Artwork by Frejj)
Roko’s character came to me pretty early on in the writing process. He is an esteemed Kavaliro soldier from Glavo Brilo, a member of the Order of the Silver Sword, a cocksure guide, and skilled human partner to griffins.
Roko enters the story assigned to the same unit as Koralo and Delfen. His dependability earns Delfen’s favor and his charm wins Koralo’s affection.
I once again worked with the talented artist Frejj on the character art. I am delighted with how this one turned out. Not only does Roko’s face and expression flawlessly convey his personality, his armor design is beautiful. My endless gratitude goes out to Frejj for bringing my visions to fruition.
An Interview with Roko
Pieces of a conversation with Roko Batalulo, Kavaliro of Glavo Brilo
Transcribed by a scrivener of the Order of the Silver Sword, before the war
Where are you from?
Glavo Brilo, of course. I am eternally proud to be a product of the fort city.
How is your relationship with your family?
I have the best parents in all of Ulstra. They raised my sister and me in Glavo Brilo. I knew from an early age I wanted to be a Kavaliro like my father, and they supported my goals. They also supported my sister in her desire to become a master gardener. We never wanted for anything in our lives, especially our parents’ love. And I’m also still very close to my sister.
Describe your experience earning your Silver Sword.
I didn’t pass the Trial on my first attempt. But I am dogged in my pursuits and I don’t give up a fight easily. Eventually, I did pass. I proved myself. I did more than earn my sword once—I demonstrated my superior skill on a daily basis and earned the admiration of my commanding officers. That is how I have been able to rise through the ranks to my current position.
What are your biggest strengths?
I like to think I’m kind, protective, adventurous, loyal, and open-minded.
And what are your weaknesses?
I’ve been called pretentious—even arrogant. I’m quite opinionated, too.
What are your hobbies?
Regular sparring. Meticulous sword cleaning and care. Dining out at Glavo Brilo’s finest restaurants and drinking at its various taverns. I enjoy dice games with friends. An amateur woodworker, I can carve a griffin.
What’s your favorite meal?
Anything prepared by my sister, Floranta. I’ve never met a finer chef. One recent meal I remember fondly: mushroom pie with a side of corn fritters. For dessert—because one must never skip dessert—cinnamon apple tarts.
Have you ever known true love?
My previous relationships have failed. I’m unsure if love was ever at hand.
What are your political views?
Rego Aglo is a tyrant. His insanity has reigned supreme for far too long. I stand with Generalo Mielle—and all of Glavo Brilo—against his regime.
What do you value most?
The people I love. I would do anything at all to protect them from harm.
That’s a brief introduction to Roko. You can get to know him even better in my debut novel Crystals of Ulstra when it’s self-published later this year.
- 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 about Crystals of Ulstra, including the characters and world.
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