Altierrapedia - User contributions [en]

Temporal Drift

2026-08-21T14:15:13Z

LairaG: /* Maddisons return to Earth */

Temporal Drift is the technical name for the time differential between Earth and Altierra. There are few data points but enough to show that the differential is variable, both in a single portal and between the two.

==The [[Tierrapuerta]]==

The original portal between Patagonia and Alta had only one temporal data point. When the Spanish settlers passed through the portal, it was in 1585 Earth-reckoning, six years after the English had entered in 1579. The time difference in Altierra was 177 years however.

Because there is only one data point, it is impossible to see how time passes between the two worlds, whether it is logarithmic as in the Mundumbra, or a simple line.

==The [[Mundumbra]]==

There are a few more data points with the Mundumbra between Dartmoor and Isla Arbojan which shows that the time differential varies over time, In the short time, Altierran time is longer than Earth time, but this reverses about 3 years (where the time is the same with both).

===Emily visits Altierra===
The first data point in ''The Snow Beyond the Wall'' is when Emily enters Altierra and returns, looking for help for Meg who has been captured.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Earth Time !! Alt. Time !! Event
|-
| 10.25 || 13.00 || Emily passes through the portal into Altierra
|-
| 10.40 || 13.55 || Emily returns to Earth
|}
15 minutes of Earth time is equivalent to 55 minutes in Altierra.

===Three Maddisons enter Altierra===
The second point is when Luke, Susan and Emily enter Altierra
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Earth Time !! Event
|-
| 10.40 || Emily passes through the portal into Altierra
|-
| 12.25 || Luke, Susan and Emily pass through the portal
|}
Emily is back on Earth for 1 hour 45 minutes but finds about two days have passed.

===Maddisons return to Earth===
When the Maddisons return to Earth, after 3.5 months in Altierra, they find that (at least) 63 years have passed on Earth.

===Maddisons return to Altierra===

Temporal Drift

2026-08-21T14:14:28Z

LairaG: /* Three Maddisons enter Altierra */

Temporal Drift is the technical name for the time differential between Earth and Altierra. There are few data points but enough to show that the differential is variable, both in a single portal and between the two.

==The [[Tierrapuerta]]==

The original portal between Patagonia and Alta had only one temporal data point. When the Spanish settlers passed through the portal, it was in 1585 Earth-reckoning, six years after the English had entered in 1579. The time difference in Altierra was 177 years however.

Because there is only one data point, it is impossible to see how time passes between the two worlds, whether it is logarithmic as in the Mundumbra, or a simple line.

==The [[Mundumbra]]==

There are a few more data points with the Mundumbra between Dartmoor and Isla Arbojan which shows that the time differential varies over time, In the short time, Altierran time is longer than Earth time, but this reverses about 3 years (where the time is the same with both).

===Emily visits Altierra===
The first data point in ''The Snow Beyond the Wall'' is when Emily enters Altierra and returns, looking for help for Meg who has been captured.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Earth Time !! Alt. Time !! Event
|-
| 10.25 || 13.00 || Emily passes through the portal into Altierra
|-
| 10.40 || 13.55 || Emily returns to Earth
|}
15 minutes of Earth time is equivalent to 55 minutes in Altierra.

===Three Maddisons enter Altierra===
The second point is when Luke, Susan and Emily enter Altierra
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Earth Time !! Event
|-
| 10.40 || Emily passes through the portal into Altierra
|-
| 12.25 || Luke, Susan and Emily pass through the portal
|}
Emily is back on Earth for 1 hour 45 minutes but finds about two days have passed.

===Maddisons return to Earth===
When the Maddisons return to Earth, after 3.5 months in Altierra to find that (at least) 63 years have passed on Earth.

===Maddisons return to Altierra===

Temporal Drift

2026-08-21T14:11:20Z

LairaG: /* Emily visits Altierra */

Temporal Drift

2026-08-21T13:53:19Z

LairaG: /* Emily visits Altierra */

Temporal Drift is the technical name for the time differential between Earth and Altierra. There are few data points but enough to show that the differential is variable, both in a single portal and between the two.

==The [[Tierrapuerta]]==

The original portal between Patagonia and Alta had only one temporal data point. When the Spanish settlers passed through the portal, it was in 1585 Earth-reckoning, six years after the English had entered in 1579. The time difference in Altierra was 177 years however.

Because there is only one data point, it is impossible to see how time passes between the two worlds, whether it is logarithmic as in the Mundumbra, or a simple line.

==The [[Mundumbra]]==

There are a few more data points with the Mundumbra between Dartmoor and Isla Arbojan which shows that the time differential varies over time, In the short time, Altierran time is longer than Earth time, but this reverses about 3 years (where the time is the same with both).

===Emily visits Altierra===
The first data point in ''The Snow Beyond the Wall'' is when Emily enters Altierra and returns, looking for help for Meg who has been captured.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Earth Time !! Alt. Time !! Event
|-
| 10.25 || 13.00 || Emily passed through the portal into Altierra
|-
| 10.40 || 13.55 || Emily returns to Earth
|}
So 15 minutes of Earth time is equivalent to 55 minutes in Altierra.

Temporal Drift

2026-08-21T13:47:43Z

LairaG: /* The Mundumbra */

Temporal Drift

2026-08-20T14:21:39Z

LairaG: /* The Mundumbra */

Temporal Drift

2026-08-20T14:14:33Z

LairaG: /* The Tierrapuerta */

Temporal Drift

2026-08-20T14:13:53Z

LairaG:

Temporal Drift

2026-08-20T14:13:40Z

LairaG: /* The Terrapuerta */

The Temporal Drift is the technical name for the time differential between Earth and Altierra. There are few data points but enough to show that the differential is variable, both in a single portal and between the two.

==The [[Tierrapuerta]]==

The original portal between Patagonia and Alta had only one temporal data point. When the Spanish settlers passed through the portal, it was in 1585 Earth-reckoning, six years after the English had entered in 1579. The time difference in Altierra was 177 years however.

Because there is only one data point, it is impossible to see how time passes between the two worlds, whether it varies as in the Mundumbra.

==The [[Mundumbra]]==

Temporal Drift

2026-08-20T14:10:02Z

LairaG: /* The Mundumbra */

Temporal Drift

2026-08-20T14:08:45Z

LairaG:

Main Page

2026-08-20T14:05:28Z

LairaG: /* The Portals */

<div style="display:flex;justify-content: flex-start;gap:30px;background-color:palegoldenrod;padding:0.5em;">
<div>
'''Categories'''
* [[:Category:Locations|List of locations]]
* [[:Category:Characters|List of characters]]
* [[:Category:Caste System|List of castes]]
* [[:Category:Fiction_reference|List of references pages]]
* [[:Category:In Progress|Pages in progress]]
* [[:Category:Maps|Map images]]
* [[:Category:Character images|Character images]]
</div>

<div>
'''Other links'''
* [[MediaWiki:Common.css]]
* [[Practice page]]
* [[The Snow: timeline|The Snow timeline]]
* [[The Stray|The Stray page]]
</div>

<div>
'''Templates'''
* [[Template:CasteNavigation|Caste navigation pane]]
* [[Template:CharacterPanel|Character panel]]
* [[Template:ColourMarker|Colour marker (used in casta rankings)]]
* [[Template:NavLink|NavLink (used in the Caste navigation panel)]]
* [[Template:SeeAlso|"See also" link box]]
* [[Template:TimelinePanel|Timeline panel]]
</div>

</div>

'''Altierra: The World Beyond the Portal'''

Altierra is a theocratic island civilisation founded by settlers from our world. Governed by a sacred hierarchy of Priestesses and shaped by the religion of Divara, its society is structured, ritualised, and deeply stratified. It features in the novel ''The Snow Beyond the Wall'' by Laira Greenbank.

==Geography==

===[[Altierra]]===

Altierra is a world that is mostly occupied by sea. The explored areas of Altierra consists of three major islands known as the [[Triada]] with numerous smaller ones. They all lie between the approximate latitudes 30° north and 60° north.

===[[Alta]]===
Alta is the middle island of the Triada in size but is considered the most important because it housed the [[Tierrapuerta]], the original [[portal]] where the English and Spanish settlers passed through from Patagonia. It houses [[Casando]], the primary [[Cregan]] and home of the Arch-Priestess. Zero longitude is measured from the location of the Tierrapuerta.

===[[Isla Arbojan]]===

Isla Arbojan is the smallest of the Triada and the last to be settled. The Cregan on the island is [[Rocosa]]. Isla Arbojan is the home of the second portal to be discovered, the [[Mundumbra]], and is where the Maddisons entered Altierra.

===[[Veridia]]===

The largest of the Triada, Veridia was named [[Greenland]] by the English because, compared to Alta, it was less mountainous and had a better climate. The Cregan there is called [[Granhía]] and is set inside a large bay unlike the other Cregans which are on the coast. Veridia is not known to contain any portals.
This island is where the majority of English-descendents settled and still has many English names, both for places and people.

===[[Las Islas Perdidas]]===

Smaller islands which are close to the Triada are considered belonging to the neighbouring island, but there are some which are so distant that they are treated separately. They are known collectively as Las Islas Perdidas whose name means "the lost islands".

===[[Atlas]]===
A page of assorted maps of Altierra.

===[[Climate|Climate and agriculture]]===
See this page for a summary of the three main islands.

==Religion==

===[[Divara]]===

Divara is the religion of Altierra, followed by all inhabitants and controlled by the Illarion, the order of the Priestesses. It consists of five gods/goddesses and was created by [[Aldonza de Bracamonte]] soon after the Spanish arrived in Altierra.

The name is a fusion of ''Divina'' (Divine) and ''Vara'' (Rod/Staff, symbolising authority).

===[[Illarion]]===

Illarion is the religious order that consists of the Priestesses and Handmaidens, that follows Divara. They live primarily in Cregans.

The name is derived from ''iluminar'' (to illuminate, from Latin ''illuminare'').

There are four casta or castes in Illarion:
* [[Sacerdotisa|The Sacerdotisa or Priestesses]]
* [[Criada|The Criada or Handmaidens]]
* [[Guardia|The Guardia or Army]]
* [[Bestia|The Bestia or Slaves]]

===Establishments===
* The [[Cregan]]: the structures where most Priestesses live, and from where they rule.
* The [[Casa de Iniciación]]: where Priestesses are trained.
* The [[Casa de Formación]]: where Slaves are raised and trained.
* [[Temple]]: other places of worship and rule away from the Cregans (or the private areas of worship within the establishments).

==History==

The recorded history of Altierra begins the [[English settlers|English crew]] from the Elizabethan ship ''Marigold'' passing through the [[Tierrapuerta]] portal along with some Patagonian natives. A few years later in Earth time but 177 in Altierra time, the [[Spanish settlers|Spanish]] passed through the same portal and conquered Altierra.

===[[Founding of Altierra]]===
This page describes how the English and Spanish settlers entered Altierra.

===[[Timeline of Altierra]]===
This page lists the notable dates in Altierran history.

===The [[Portal]]s===
There were two known portals between Earth and Altierra, both now destroyed:
* The original [[Tierrapuerta]] on Alta.
* The [[Mundumbra]] on Isla Arbojan through which passed the Maddisons,

===[[Temporal Drift]]===
The two portals had their own time differentials, known as Temporal Drift,

==Culture==

===Calendars===

The '''[[Secular Altierran calendar]]''' is used by everyone. Months are based on the moon so a year could have twelve or thirteen months.

There are also timetables used in different establishments such as the [[Cregan schedule]] and the [[Casa_de_Formación#Schedule|Bestia school schedule]].

===[[Currency]]===

The currency in Altierra consists of three coins:

* Mariposa (Copper/Bronze): The lowest denomination, representing small, everyday transactions.
* Gota (Silver): The most common medium of exchange, used for larger daily purchases and wages.
* Estrella (Gold): The highest denomination, reserved for significant transactions, land purchases, and the wealthiest individuals.

===[[Architecture]]===
The Spanish created their own style of architecture to differentiate themselves from the existing English.

===[[Seafaring]]===

Seafaring is an important part of Altierran life, although most people rarely venture off their islands because of the distances involved. Long-distance sailing is through [[the Guild of Navigators]] who are separate from the Priestesses although still subservient for the latter create and control the astronomical ephemeris that the navigators use.

===[[Agriculture]]===
Altierra is based strongly on agriculture with very little industry. It varies depending on the island.

==Principle Characters==

===The Maddison family===
The four [[Maddisons|Maddison]] siblings are the protagonists of the novel ''[[The Snow Beyond the Wall]]''. They consists of [[Luke Maddison|Luke]], [[Susan Maddison|Susan]], [[Meg Maddison|Meg]], and [[Emily Maddison|Emily]]. Their parents are Richard and [[Caroline Maddison]].

The great-aunt of the Maddisons and the owner of Portian House is [[Isabel Navarro]].

===Local Altierrans===
The Maddisons' local friends include [[Alucio]], [[Fabra]] and [[Raf]]. A hostile encounter is with [[Madesto]] from Peyrol.

===At Rocosa===
The High Priestess at Rocosa is [[Jesenia]], her deputy is [[Socorra]]. One of the Handmaidens is [[Laritza]]. The leader of the Guardia is [[Valdez|Marshal Valdez]]. Among the Bestia at Rocosa are [[Brisa]], [[Nena]], [[Toia]], and [[Vila]].

===At Sometria===
The inhabitants at Sometria include the head Handmaiden Tutor [[Maricella]] and the [[Iniciador]] [[Farago]].

===Characters with individual pages===
* [[Aldonza de Bracamonte]]
* [[Alucio]]
* [[Brisa]]
* [[Caroline Maddison]]
* [[Elisa]]
* [[Emily Maddison]]
* [[Fabra]]
* [[Farago]]
* [[Isabel Navarro]]
* [[Jesenia]]
* [[Kataleya]]
* [[Laritza]]
* [[Luke Maddison]]
* [[Madesto]]
* [[Maricella]]
* [[Meg Maddison]]
* [[Nena]]
* [[Raf]]
* [[Socorra]]
* [[Susan Maddison]]
* [[Toia]]
* [[Valdez]]
* [[Vila]]

==Fiction==

===[[The Snow Beyond the Wall]]===
''The Snow Beyond the Wall'' follows the story of the four [[Maddisons|Maddison]] siblings when they pass through into Altierra.

====[[The Snow: timeline|Timeline]]====
A page a day covering the story in the novel.

===[[The Stray]]===
The sequel to ''The Snow Beyond the Wall'' where Meg is recruited to rescue Nena.

===[[Potential stories]]===

This page is where I jot down ideas for potential stories.

===Reference pages===

* [[Writing notes]]

* [[Lighting]]

* [[Transport speeds]]

* [[Food and drink]]

* [[Male names]]

* [[Female names]]

* [[Geographic names]]

*[[Population appearance]]

===Account===
U: LairaG

P: LairaGreenbank

Temporal Drift

2026-08-20T13:59:13Z

LairaG: Created page with "The Temporal Drift is the technical name for the time differential between Earth and Altierra."

The Temporal Drift is the technical name for the time differential between Earth and Altierra.

Portal

2026-08-20T13:58:27Z

LairaG:

A passage between Earth and Altierra, noticeable for the variable [[Temporal Drift|time difference]] between the two worlds. There are only two known portals, both now destroyed.

==Terrapuerta==

[[Tierrapuerta]] was the portal between [[Patagonia]] and [[Alta]] from which the English and then the Spanish settlers passed through to populate Altierra. It appeared as a passageway inside a cave on the Earth side, and a large crack in a cliff in Altierra. The Earth entrance was destroyed by an earthquake in the year 8 and forgotten.

==The Mundumbra==

The [[Mundumbra]] linked Dartmoor in England to [[Isla Arbojan]]. At the time the [[Maddisons]] passed through, the Earth end was within a cellar in [[Portian House]], appearing as a crack in the walls. On the Altierran side, it resembled an animal burrow beneath a boulder. The portal was filled in when the Maddisons returned permanently to Altierra.

Portal

2026-08-20T13:56:27Z

LairaG:

A passage between Earth and Altierra, noticeable for the variable [[time difference]] between the two worlds. There are only two known portals, both now destroyed.

==Terrapuerta==

[[Tierrapuerta]] was the portal between [[Patagonia]] and [[Alta]] from which the English and then the Spanish settlers passed through to populate Altierra. It appeared as a passageway inside a cave on the Earth side, and a large crack in a cliff in Altierra. The Earth entrance was destroyed by an earthquake in the year 8 and forgotten.

==The Mundumbra==

The [[Mundumbra]] linked Dartmoor in England to [[Isla Arbojan]]. At the time the [[Maddisons]] passed through, the Earth end was within a cellar in [[Portian House]], appearing as a crack in the walls. On the Altierran side, it resembled an animal burrow beneath a boulder. The portal was filled in when the Maddisons returned permanently to Altierra.

Day 1: 2nd Lluvial

2026-08-19T08:36:50Z

LairaG: /* Luke, Susan and Emily */

Luke, Susan and Meg enter Altierra and are rescued by Alucio. Meg

{{TimelinePanel
| daynumber = 1
| date = 15th March<br>2nd Lluvial
| previousdate = [[Day -1: 1st Lluvial]]
| nextdate = [[Day 2: 3rd Lluvial]]
| earthdate =
| sunrise = 05.48
| sunset = 17.45
| weather = Morning: Calm, pale haze, 12 °C.<br>Afternoon: High cloud spreads from west, 16 °C.
| moon = Just past full [98%]<br>Sets: 06.14, rises: 18.57<br>Bright moonlight at night
| chapter = Emily calls for help<br>Alucio<br>Interrogations
}}

==Luke, Susan and Emily==
'''''Emily calls for help'''''
* 12.25 (14.25) They start to enter Altierra.
* 12.45 (14.45) All are in Altierra.
'''''Alucio'''''
* 15.10 Rescued by Alucio.
* 17.30 Arrive at Alucio’s house.
* 19.30 Sleep.

==Meg==
* 05.45 ALBA
* 07.00 Interrogation with Valdez and Socorra. Meg is caned.
* 07.40 Moved to the green room.
* 09.00 The purification ceremony begins.
* 09.20 Stillness.
* 15.30 Veiling.
* 15.50 Cleansing.
* 16.20 Witnessing.
* 16.40 Ascension.
* 16.55 Returned to green room.
* 18.20 SOMBRAS
* 18.30 Toia brings dinner.

==Notes==

[[Category:Story Timeline]]
[[Category:In Progress]]

Day -2: 30th Despertal

2026-08-19T08:35:02Z

LairaG: /* Emily */

Emily and Meg explore the cellar. Emily passes through the portal, followed by Meg who is captured by the Guardia. Emily returns for help but is dismissed by Luke and Susan.

{{TimelinePanel
| daynumber = -1
| date = 13th March<br>30th Despertal
| previousdate =
| nextdate = [[Day -1: 1st Lluvial]]
| earthdate = 12th August 2025
| sunrise = 05.51
| sunset = 17.44
| weather =
| moon = Nearly full moon [99.9%]<br>Sets: 05.27, rises: 17.04<br>Bright moonlight at night
| chapter = Snow on a rainy day<br>Emily calls for help
}}

==Luke and Susan==
'''''Emily calls for help'''''
* 10.00 The pair are working in the bedroom.
* 11.05 Emily appears and tells them of portal. Luke smacks her and she leaves. They return to work.
* 12.15 They miss Meg and talk to Emily.

==Emily and Meg==
'''''Snow on a rainy day'''''
* 10.00 Emily and Meg leave Luke and Susan and go to their bedroom.
* 10.10 They leave and head down to the cellar.

==Emily==
'''''Emily calls for help'''''
*10.25 (13.00 AT) She goes through the portal.
*(13.30 AT) She is caught in the tree by soldiers.
*(13.45 AT) She escapes the soldier. Sees Meg running.
*10.40 (13.55 AT) She returns through portal. Searches cellar.
*11.05 She tells Luke and Susan. She is smacked by Luke and goes to room.

''AT = Altierran time''

==Meg==
'''''Snow on a rainy day'''''
* 10.20 Searching the cellar. Doesn’t find Emily. Rests. Searches again.
* 10.35 (13.35 AT) Goes through the portal.
* (13.45 AT) Hears shouts (soldier calling after Emily). Runs in opposite direction.
* (13.50) Captured by soldiers.
* (14.00) Cart sets off, back to Rocosa.
* (17.15) They stop for the night on the at the Peyrol junction.
* (17.45) SOMBRAS
* (18.30) Sleeps

==Notes==
Because of the time differential, this page is only a few hours on Earth but most of the day in Altierra.

Emily spends 55 minutes in Altierra but finds only 15 minutes have gone past on Dartmoor. By her reckoning, there was 90 minutes between leaving Luke and Susan (25m before portal, 55m in Altierra, 10m in cellar), and returning to them for help. For Luke and Susan, only 50 minutes had gone by.

[[Category:Fiction]]
[[Category:Story Timeline]]

Template:CasteNavigation

2026-08-19T07:36:16Z

LairaG:

-----

{| class="centreinfo"
|+ '''Casta and their ranks'''
|-
! colspan="5" | {{NavLink|Sacerdotisa|Sacerdotisa / Priestesses}}
|-
| {{NavLink|Acólita}}
|| {{NavLink|Sacerdotisa Nombrada}}
|| {{NavLink|Sacerdotisa Venerada}}
|| {{NavLink|Alta Sacerdotisa}}
|| {{NavLink|Arcipresta Suprema}}

|-
! colspan="5" | {{NavLink|Criada|Criada / Handmaidens}}
|-
| {{NavLink|Criada Novicia}}
|| {{NavLink|Criada Jurada}}
|| {{NavLink|Criada Velada}}
|| {{NavLink|Criada Mayor}}
|| {{NavLink|Criada Sabia}}

|-
! colspan="5" | {{NavLink|Bestia|Bestia / Slaves}}
|-
| {{NavLink|Bestia Baja}}
|| {{NavLink|Bestia Plena}}
|| {{NavLink|Bestia Primera}}
|| {{NavLink|Bestia Fiel}}
||

|-
! colspan="5" | {{NavLink|Guardia|Guardia / Military}}
|-
| {{NavLink|Peón}}
|| {{NavLink|Soldado}}
|| {{NavLink|Veterano}}
|| {{NavLink|Cabo}}
|| {{NavLink|Sargento}}
|-
| {{NavLink|Alférez}}
|| {{NavLink|Teniente}}
| {{NavLink|Capitán}}
|| {{NavLink|Mariscal}}
||
|-
| {{NavLink|Custodio Mayor}}
|| {{NavLink|Inquisidora de Guerra}}
|| {{NavLink|Comandanta Suprema}}
||
|| {{NavLink|Dark Wolves}}

|}

Marischal

2026-08-19T07:35:38Z

LairaG: LairaG moved page Marischal to Mariscal

#REDIRECT [[Mariscal]]

Mariscal

2026-08-19T07:35:38Z

LairaG: LairaG moved page Marischal to Mariscal

'''English: Marshal'''

A Mariscal is the highest of the ''Oficiales del Campo'' (Field Officers). Although Field Officers, they will spend much time in the Cregan, taking orders from Cregan Officers or Priestesses.

==Etymology==
The name is the direct Spanish word for "marshal".

==Appearance==
'''Helmet:''' one blue plume.
<br>
'''Badge:''' four suns in a diamond shape.

==Notes==

==Characters==

Named Mariscals:
* [[Valdez]]

{{CasteNavigation}}

[[Category:Caste System]]

Mariscal

2026-08-19T07:35:17Z

LairaG:

Valdez

2026-08-19T07:34:34Z

LairaG:

{{CharacterPanel
| name = Valdez
| image = Head_Valdez.jpg
| race = Altierran
| aka=
| born = 513
| died =
| occupation = Soldier
| insequel = yes
| family =
}}

Valdez is a Guardia Mariscal at [[Rocosa]], tasked with finding the [[Mundumbra]] portal. He interrogated [[Meg Maddison]] when she was brought there and was fascinated by her hair and exotic origin. He hoped to obtain her as a personal Bestia if he succeeded in his mission.

After Meg escaped from Sometria, he joined the [[Dark Wolves]] to pursue her, taking a demotion in the process.

==Appearance==

Marshal Valdez is a powerfully built, older man with a broad, imposing frame. He has closely cropped grey hair, a full white beard and a deeply lined, weathered face that suggests years of military service. His expression is stern and watchful, with a hard, controlled gaze. In the image-based interpretation, he wears decorated armour beneath a dark cloak, presenting himself as a senior military officer rather than an ordinary soldier. His appearance should convey authority, physical strength and a sense of controlled danger.

==Character==

Marshal Valdez is an experienced, ruthless and intimidating officer of the Guardia. He is tasked with interrogating Meg and discovering the origin of the portal, and he approaches this duty with the confidence of a man accustomed to using fear and violence to obtain obedience. He sees prisoners primarily as sources of information and has little concern for their dignity or emotional wellbeing.

Valdez is methodical rather than impulsive. His interrogation of Meg is carefully structured: he begins with questions, examines her clothing and possessions, tests her explanations, and then escalates to physical punishment when she refuses to co-operate. He understands that Meg is hiding information, and his persistence makes him dangerous even when he does not immediately resort to violence.

He is also sexually predatory. His interest in Meg’s unusual appearance quickly becomes entangled with his desire to possess her, and he treats her vulnerability as an opportunity. He views Bestia as property and appears to believe that official authority entitles him to control both their bodies and their futures. His treatment of Vila shows the same possessive attitude: he objects to her damaging what he considers his property, but his concern is ownership rather than compassion.

Despite his brutality, Valdez is not entirely uncontrolled. He follows orders from Jesenia, recognises the limits placed upon him by her authority, and can behave with calculated restraint when necessary. He is capable of gentleness when it serves his purposes, as when he questions Meg after her beating, but that gentleness never removes the underlying threat. His apparent calm is part of his power.

==Speech==

Valdez speaks in a controlled, authoritative manner, using short questions and commands to pressure his prisoners. He expects to be addressed as “sir” and reacts sharply when Meg fails to do so. His language is formal enough to reflect his rank, but it becomes blunt and threatening during interrogation.

He often repeats questions when he believes an answer is evasive, gradually narrowing the space in which the other person can respond. His threats are delivered without theatrical excitement; he speaks of punishment, pain and possession as though they are ordinary professional matters. This calmness makes him more frightening than an officer who simply loses his temper.

Valdez also uses calculated personal remarks. He comments on Meg’s hair, clothing and unusual appearance, allowing his interest to intrude into the interrogation. His tone can shift suddenly from official questioning to intimate menace, particularly when he suggests that he will claim Meg for himself.

When speaking to Jesenia, he becomes deferential and cautious, addressing her as “Domina” and accepting her authority even when he disagrees. With subordinates and prisoners, however, he is commanding and contemptuous. His speech therefore changes according to power: respectful upward, threatening downward, and always designed to establish control.

==Timeline==

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Year !! Age !! Event
|-
| 513 || - || Born
|-
| 5xx || 00 || Becomes Mariscal
|-
| 556 || 43 || Maddisons enter Altierra
|-
| 5xx || xx || Takes a demotion to lead the Dark Wolves
|-
| 5xx || xx || Meets Meg in the Heartwild
|}

==Images==

[[File:Valdez1.jpg|thumb|center|400px|''Valdez at Rocosa'']]

[[Category:Characters]]
[[Category:In Progress]]

MediaWiki:Sidebar

2026-08-18T08:16:54Z

LairaG:

MediaWiki:Sidebar

2026-08-18T08:16:25Z

LairaG:

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2026-08-18T08:14:55Z

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2026-08-18T08:13:35Z

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Nena

2026-08-18T08:02:50Z

LairaG: /* Timeline */

{{CharacterPanel
| name = Nena
| image = Head_Nena.jpg
| race = Altierran
| aka=
| born = 532
| died =
| occupation = Bestia
| insequel = yes
| family = [[Luke Maddison|Luke Maddison (husband)]]
}}

Nena is a Bestia Plena captured by [[Alucio]], and the [[Maddisons]] in the woods near Rocosa to provide intelligence for the rescue of Meg Maddison from Sometria. She is the only Altierran character who moves from the other side of the conflict into the Maddisons' circle, and her gradual de-conditioning from Bestia indoctrination, facilitated by Luke's compassionate treatment, forms one of the novel's most quietly affecting arcs. By the epilogue, she lives with Luke in the woods near Alucio's home.

==Appearance==

Nena is a young Bestia woman. The novel offers no detailed physical description beyond Susan's observation that she is "attractive" — Susan watches Luke "cuddling the attractive Bestia" on the boat to Shell Island with visible displeasure. Her age is not stated explicitly, though she is likely a young adult. She is encountered as a gatherer near Rocosa, picking plants in the woods when seized by Alucio.

As a Bestia, she wears the standard slave garment: a white chemise. During her capture, her chemise rides up in the struggle, and Luke immediately adjusts it to preserve her modesty — a small act of dignity in a moment of violence. No further clothing details are given in the novel beyond the standard Bestia attire.

The reference photos show the following details not explicit in the novel text: thick, wavy black hair reaching just past the shoulders, parted roughly down the middle with loose strands framing the face; warm dark brown eyes; an oval face with a well-defined jawline and a slightly pointed chin; a fair, clear complexion with light subtle freckles across the nose and upper cheeks; a slim build.

==Character==

Nena is defined by the tension between her deeply conditioned obedience and a capacity for trust and curiosity that surfaces slowly under Luke's care. She is introduced as a nameless Bestia — a gatherer picking plants in the woods, seized from behind by Alucio. She fights fiercely, but once caught, she submits completely: "She was like an animal that had been fighting but, now that she was caught, submitted to her fate." This pattern — resistance followed by outward submission — is the first sign of the Bestia conditioning that shapes her every response. Though she goes still when caught, the panic she later shows at the boat reveals that the stillness is learned behaviour, not genuine acceptance.

She is initially silent. When asked her name, she does not answer. She remains mute as they escort her across the ridge to the boat. Her silence is not defiance but a form of self-preservation: a Bestia has nothing to say to captors, and nothing to gain by speaking. It is only on Shell Island, alone with Luke, that she begins to talk — and her first question is revealing: "Why did you stay with me?" The question is not about practicality but about motive. She cannot understand why anyone would choose to stay with her out of compassion rather than ownership.

Her relationship with the Bestia system is deeply internalised. She kneels automatically when addressed by non-Bestia, head bowed. She asks permission for everything — to light a fire, to prepare food, to speak. When Luke tells her she does not need to call him "sir", she apologises, and the apology itself is another form of deference. When she nearly reveals details of Sometria's pre-school, she stops herself mid-sentence: "I nearly betrayed the school. Nearly revealed its details. I must not betray Illarion." The loyalty to the system that enslaved her is genuine and deeply rooted — not performative, but the only moral framework she has ever known.

This conditioning creates a genuine moral conflict. When asked to help free Meg from Sometria, she initially refuses: "If the Priestesses have sent your friend to Sometria, I cannot go against them." It is not cowardice but conscience — she believes the Priestesses' authority is rightful. Her eventual decision to help is never dramatised as a single turning point; rather, Luke's patient kindness on Shell Island erodes the assumption that all masters are harsh, and she begins to provide information incrementally.

She is practically skilled and observant. She builds fires expertly, gathers plants, and knows the common areas and routines of Sometria from Bestia training and experience — she was taken to the pre-school near Sometria from weaning until age five, and retains detailed knowledge of the buildings, schedules, and customs. During the Sometria reconnaissance with Alucio, she identifies buildings by function — "That's the ill room" — and provides the novices' schedule from memory. She also knows the consequences of disobedience: when Meg says Toia will be executed if she flees, Nena confirms simply, "Yes, they would." Her knowledge is encyclopaedic but dispassionate; she reports facts without emotional commentary, the product of a lifetime spent observing without being permitted to judge.

She is socially isolated even among allies. At Elísal, she sits apart from the others, eating her porridge alone in the corner. The Maddisons encourage her to join them, but she prefers solitude, and they do not force her. This withdrawal is partly conditioning — a Bestia does not presume to sit with free people — and partly the natural response of someone who has lost her entire world and is not yet certain the new one is safe.

Her arc culminates in the epilogue. By the first anniversary of the Maddisons' arrival, Nena lives with Luke in the woods near Alucio. Luke reports that she is "slowly losing her indoctrination" — she calls him "Luke" now, though "it sometimes sounds like just a variation of 'sir'." He tries not to make deference easy for her, but acknowledges the difficulty: "when I think of Toia walking calmly to her death…" The unfinished thought carries the weight of a woman who was trained to accept death without protest, and whose recovery is measured not in dramatic reversals but in the slow accumulation of small acts of autonomy. She gathers plants while Luke learns to hunt — a partnership that mirrors but does not erase the Bestia roles of gatherer and provider.

In summary: conditioned, loyal to the system that enslaved her, yet capable of curiosity and gradual trust. She is the novel's quiet study of what happens when a person raised without autonomy encounters kindness — not a dramatic liberation, but a slow, uncertain, and ongoing emergence.

==Speech==

Nena's conditioned Altierran formal register is the most distinctive speech pattern in the novel, because it reveals the depth of Bestia conditioning in every word. It is deferential, minimal, and permission-seeking, contrasting sharply with the contracted, casual British English of the Maddison siblings.

She often uses formal, uncontracted phrasing in deferential moments — "I am sorry," "I do not, sir" — though not exclusively. In more factual, informational moments she can contract naturally: "That's the ill room," "Unless she's being punished elsewhere, sir". The contrast itself is telling: deference triggers formality, while reporting facts allows a small relaxation.

Her default address is "sir". Every statement directed at Luke or Alucio is punctuated with it: "I am sorry, sir," "I do not, sir," "Shall I light a fire for you, sir?" Even after being told repeatedly not to call him "sir," she cannot break the habit — the word surfaces automatically, as ingrained as breathing. In the epilogue, Luke notes that she now calls him "Luke," though "it sometimes sounds like just a variation of 'sir'" — a detail that captures both her progress and the distance remaining.

She asks permission for everything, even when no permission is needed. "Please. I would like to prepare it". "Shall I light a fire for you, sir?" Each request is framed as a petition to a master, not a preference expressed to an equal. Luke's response — "Do you want a fire? Would you feel better with a fire, Nena?" — deliberately reframes her petitions as choices, but the habit is deeply rooted.

Her speech is sparse and factual when providing information. During the Sometria reconnaissance, her statements are short and functional: "The square on the left is for the girls". "That's the ill room". "Time for the novices to eat". She does not elaborate, offer opinions, or speculate. This economy reflects both her training — a Bestia reports, she does not analyse — and a natural reticence born of years in which speaking unnecessarily was dangerous.

Silence is her first language. When captured, she does not speak at all. Even on Shell Island, her first question comes only after the boat has faded from view and she is certain no one else can hear. Her willingness to speak grows in proportion to her trust in Luke, but she never becomes voluble. In group settings, she remains quiet, and when she does speak, it is usually to provide essential information or to kneel and defer.

Her breakthrough moment is a question: "Why did you stay with me?" — followed by "Why would you care?" These are the first times Nena expresses curiosity rather than obedience, and the first time she implies that she has value worth questioning. The questions are tentative, almost surprised, and they mark the beginning of her emergence from conditioned submission.

She also shows loyalty to Illarion in speech: "I must not betray Illarion". This declaration, made mid-conversation when she nearly reveals school details, is automatic and absolute — a reflexive assertion of allegiance to the system that owns her. It is spoken without anger or defiance, simply as a statement of fact, as though loyalty to one's oppressors is as natural as gravity.

A representative line that captures her voice: "Shall I light a fire for you, sir?" — permission-seeking, formal, uncontracted, and deferential to the core, yet carrying within it the first small stirrings of agency: she is asking to do something she is good at, for someone she is beginning to trust.

==Timeline==

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Year !! Age !! Event
|-
| 532 || - || Born
|-
| 5xx || 00 || xxxx
|-
| 556 || 24 || Maddisons enter Altierra. Captured by Alucio & Maddisons.
|-
| 557 || 25 || Moved to woods with Luke
|-
| 560 || 28 || Captured by the Dark Wolves
|}

==Images==

{| class="wikitable"
| [[File:Nena_formal.jpg|thumb|left|300px|''Nena in formal shot'']]
| [[File:Nena1.jpg|thumb|left|300px|''Nena in the woods near Rocosa'']]
| [[File:Nena2.jpg|thumb|left|300px|''Nena on the beach at Shell Island'']]
| [[File:Nena3.jpg|thumb|left|300px|''Nena while living with Luke'']]
|}

[[Category:Characters]]
[[Category:In Progress]]

Luke Maddison

2026-08-18T08:02:18Z

LairaG: /* Timeline */

{{CharacterPanel
| name = Luke Maddison
| image = Head_Luke.jpg
| race = Earth
| aka =
| born = 2005
| died =
| cause =
| occupation = Student
| insequel = yes
| family = [[Susan Maddison|Susan]] (sister)<br>[[Meg Maddison|Meg]] (sister)<br>[[Emily Maddison|Emily]] (sister)<hr>[[Nena|Nena (wife)]]
}}

Luke Maddison is one of the four [[Maddisons|Maddison]] siblings who enter Altierra in the novel ''[[The Snow Beyond the Wall]]''. He is the eldest of the four Maddison siblings, aged twenty. Trusted by his parents to look after the younger ones, he carries the nominal authority of the eldest brother, though in practice Susan is more decisive and assertive. Luke is the novel's reflective consciousness: he narrates the epilogue in the first person, looking back on the family's settlement in Altierra with warmth, wry humour, and a quiet melancholy for the world left behind. His relationship with Nena, the Bestia captured for information, is one of the clearest personal arcs of the novel.

==Appearance==

Luke is the oldest Maddison sibling — Meg tells the Priestess "Luke's the oldest – he's twenty," and a Guardia officer describes him as "a man of about nineteen, clean shaven, dark hair." The novel does not give a detailed physical description beyond this. The narration notes that Luke is about the same size as Raf, which allows the fishermen to provide him with Altierran clothing: a woollen tunic, baggy loose-fitting trousers, slightly worn boots, and a sleeveless cloak.

Before crossing into Altierra he wears jeans and trainers. At college, he was studying — the novel opens with him "anticipating three weeks with no projects, lectures or computers," planning to work at the local pub for extra money. This background marks him as a modern student, not a warrior or outdoorsman, and his adaptation to Altierran life is gradual.

The two reference photos show the following details not explicit in the novel text: light brown or dark blonde hair styled in a quiff — shorter on the sides with length on top, combed upward and textured; light blue-green or hazel eyes; a heart-shaped face with a defined jawline, high cheekbones, and a prominent, slightly pointed chin; a fair complexion with warm undertones; a slender to average athletic build.

The novel's only textual hair description is a Guardia officer's second-hand report calling him dark-haired; the reference portraits render this as light brown or dark blonde. This may reflect the officer's imprecise information or a difference in perception.

==Character==

Luke is defined by a sense of responsibility that outweighs his confidence in exercising it. As the eldest, he was trusted by their parents to look after the others — "He was the eldest, trusted by his parents to look after them. It was his job to decide." Yet he is acutely aware that his authority has eroded. As children, he was the family prankster until his sisters banded together and turned the tables on him. By the time they arrive at Portian House, he muses: "They won't obey me anyway" and wonders "how much of his authority remained". In practice, Susan leads more often than he does — she is the one who insists on exploring, who bargains with Madesto, who insists on joining the Rocosa reconnaissance. Luke's role is less commander than guardian: he asks questions, raises objections, and provides a steadying moral voice.

He is initially sceptical and dismissive. When Emily tries to tell him and Susan that Meg has been kidnapped through a portal to another world, he brushes her off — "We've no time for playing" — and hits her when she persists. The guilt of this moment stays with him, and he apologises once the truth becomes undeniable. It is a formative error: Luke becomes more conscious of having dismissed her wrongly, though he still doubts her later portal-landmark memory before she is proved right again.

He is protective, sometimes to a fault. When Madesto demands Susan as payment for revealing Emily's location, Luke's instinct is to refuse — "I won't let you" — though Susan overrules him. When Alucio plans the Rocosa reconnaissance, Luke insists on going himself rather than sending Susan, arguing "It's too dangerous for Susan." His protectiveness is genuine but can be paternalistic, and Susan challenges it more than once.

His moral compass is central to his character. He is uncomfortable with the plan to kidnap a Bestia for information: "I don't like the idea of kidnapping someone, whoever they are." When the captured Nena's chemise rides up during the struggle, Luke pulls it down immediately — a small act of dignity that sets the tone for his treatment of her. On Shell Island, when the others prepare to leave Nena alone overnight, Luke refuses: "Because you're alone. I thought you might be frightened." He stays with her, and this compassion becomes the foundation of their relationship.

He is practically capable without being showy. He learns crab fishing from Fabra, rows the longboat, and participates in the Sometria reconnaissance and rescue. He is not a natural warrior like Alucio or a bold improviser like Susan, but he is reliable, steady, and willing to do the unglamorous work. His contributions are quiet but essential.

His relationship with Nena is one of the clearest personal arcs of his story. From reluctant kidnapper to compassionate guardian, Luke's treatment of Nena — insisting she need not call him "sir", giving her choices rather than commands, staying with her when she is afraid — stands in direct contrast to the Bestia system of ownership and deference. By the epilogue, they live together in the woods near Alucio. Luke is learning to hunt while Nena gathers plants. He notes that she is "slowly losing her indoctrination" — she calls him "Luke" now, though "it sometimes sounds like just a variation of 'sir'." He tries not to make deference easy for her, acknowledging the difficulty of unlearning a lifetime of conditioning. When he thinks of Toia walking calmly to her death, the weight of that knowledge informs his patience with Nena's recovery.

As narrator of the epilogue, Luke is reflective, warm, and slightly wry. He observes the family's new life with affection: Susan and Raf's growing relationship, Meg and Emily staying with Fabra, Meg's talk of starting a resistance. He notes, with characteristic understatement, "I've had enough of bells to last a lifetime." His final thoughts return to the buried portal: "Sometimes, when out in the woods, I pass by the site of the portal, now buried forever, and wonder what is happening in our old world."

In summary: responsible, cautious, morally principled, and quietly compassionate. He is the steadying presence in a family of stronger personalities, and his gentleness — particularly toward Nena — proves to be his defining strength.

==Speech==

Luke's natural register is modern British English — measured, polite, and more cautious than Susan's direct, assertive style. He is the sibling most likely to raise an objection, ask a clarifying question, or express uncertainty. "I don't like the idea," and "I suppose it seems" are characteristic openers, reflecting his habit of thinking aloud rather than issuing commands.

He can be firm when circumstances demand it. With Emily, he is authoritative — "We've no time for playing" and "If you two want to play, go and do it somewhere else" — though his firmness often misfires, as when he dismisses her report of Meg's kidnapping. He is gentler in apology: "I'm sorry, Em." His tone with siblings shifts between fraternal authority and genuine remorse, and he is honest about his mistakes.

His speech is marked by moral qualification. When discussing the plan to kidnap Nena, he does not simply object — he articulates his discomfort precisely: "It's not the plan in general I don't like. It's the thought of kidnapping a woman, even a Bestia." This habit of distinguishing between the practical and the ethical is characteristic; Luke weighs consequences where Susan acts on instinct.

He is polite and respectful in unfamiliar situations. Meeting Mrs Navarro: "Good morning. We're the Maddisons. This is Portian House, isn't it?" He defers to Alucio on Altierran matters without resentment, asking questions rather than challenging expertise: "Are there no other countries? No armies?" His curiosity is genuine, not performative.

With Nena, his speech is consistently gentle and egalitarian. "You don't have to call me 'sir'," he tells her repeatedly. "You're not a Bestia here, remember. You're just another free woman." He frames requests as choices — "Would you feel better with a fire, Nena?" — and gives permission as though granting autonomy rather than issuing orders. This register is deliberate and contrasts sharply with the command-and-obey dynamic of Bestia culture.

In the epilogue, his voice shifts to first-person narration — reflective, wry, and personal. "I suspect that Raf and Susan will soon be setting up their own home together," he observes, the verb "suspect" carrying both prediction and gentle amusement. Of Nena's recovery: "she calls me 'Luke' now although it sometimes sounds like just a variation of 'sir'" — a line that captures both progress and the long road remaining. His humour is dry and self-deprecating: "I've had enough of bells to last a lifetime."

He does not use profanity in the novel, which distinguishes him from both Susan and Meg. His frustration is expressed through tone and qualification rather than outburst.

A representative line that captures his voice: "Because you're alone. I thought you might be frightened." — simple, compassionate, and revealing of the moral instinct that defines him.

==Timeline==

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Year !! Age !! Event
|-
| 2005 || - || Born
|-
| 2023 || 18 || Left home to go to college
|-
| 2025/556 || 20 || Entered Altierra
|-
| 557 || 21 || Moved to woods with Nena
|-
| 560 || 24 || Nena captured by the Dark Wolves
|}

==Images==

{| class="wikitable"
| [[File:Luke1.jpg|thumb|center|300px|''Luke as he appeared when he first entered Altierra'']]
| [[File:Luke2.jpg|thumb|center|300px|''Luke in Altierran clothing'']]
| [[File:Luke3.jpg|thumb|center|300px|''Luke living as a hunter'']]
|}

[[Category:Characters]]
[[Category:In Progress]]

Raf

2026-08-18T07:59:28Z

LairaG: /* Timeline */

{{CharacterPanel
| name = Raf
| image = Head_Raf.jpg
| race = Altierran
| aka=
| born = 533
| died =
| occupation = Fisherman
| insequel = yes
| family = [[Fabra]] (father)<br>[[Elisa]]† (wife)
}}

Raf is a crab fisherman living on the coast of Isla Arbojan, between Peyrol and Rocosa. He lives with his father at [[Elisal]]. When his father shelters the [[Maddisons]], he forms an attachment with [[Susan Maddison|Susan]].

==Appearance==

Raf is a young man in his late teens or early twenties, with dark hair, a neatly trimmed beard and a lean, athletic build. He has a calm, observant face and the look of someone who is used to outdoor work and physical effort. In the image, he appears in simple, practical clothing suited to coastal labour: a loose tunic, tied at the waist, with sleeves rolled for work. His overall appearance is quiet and capable rather than flashy, and he reads as a practical working man with some natural confidence.

==Character==

Raf is steady, helpful and thoughtful, with a practical streak that makes him a useful member of the group. He is not as outspoken as Luke or Susan, and he tends to work quietly in the background, keeping the household running and doing what needs to be done. He knows the local routines well, especially the fishing, the coastline and the practical layout of the approach to Rocosa and Sometria.

He is loyal to his family and willing to take risks when needed, but he is cautious by nature. Unlike Alucio, who drives plans forward, Raf often acts as a stabilising presence, checking details and filling in gaps with concrete knowledge. He is also sensible about danger and is often the one to point out limitations or practical problems with the others’ plans.

Raf is not emotionally dramatic, but he is compassionate in a grounded way. He helps the Maddisons adapt to Altierra, lends them clothing, explains customs, and quietly supports them through difficult moments. He comes across as tolerant and decent, with enough resolve to do what is necessary but not enough recklessness to ignore consequences.

==Speech==

Raf speaks in a calm, measured, and practical manner. His speech is generally straightforward and unshowy, with little of the dramatic tone that some of the others use. He often talks as though he is thinking through a task step by step, and he tends to contribute useful, concrete details rather than grand ideas.

He is polite but not overly formal. His tone is quietly confident, and he is comfortable explaining things in plain language. When he disagrees, he does so gently but firmly, usually by pointing out a practical objection rather than arguing emotionally. He also sounds rooted in the local world, using the vocabulary of fishing, travel and household routine naturally and without strain.

Overall, Raf’s speech makes him seem dependable and grounded. He is the sort of person who does not need to raise his voice to be taken seriously.

==Timeline==

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Year !! Age !! Event
|-
| 533 || - || Raf born
|-
| 538 || 5 || Elisa killed
|-
| 541 || 8 || Moves to Elísal
|-
| 556 || 23 || Encounters the Maddisons
|}

==Images==

[[Category:Characters]]
[[Category:In Progress]]

Fabra

2026-08-18T07:59:01Z

LairaG: /* Timeline */

{{CharacterPanel
| name = Fabra
| image = Head_Fabra.jpg
| race = Altierran
| aka=
| born = 511
| died =
| cause =
| occupation = Fisherman
| insequel = yes
| family = [[Elisa]]† (wife)<br>[[Raf]] (son)
}}

Fabra is a crab fisherman living on the coast of [[Isla Arbojan]], between [[Peyrol]] and [[Rocosa]]. He shelters three of the [[Maddisons|Maddison]] siblings when they are rescued by [[Alucio]]. His house is called [[Elisal]] after his murdered wife.

==Appearance==

Fabra is an older man, weathered by a lifetime of hard outdoor work. He has a strong, sturdy build, grey hair, and a full white beard, giving him the look of someone experienced, practical and not easily intimidated. His face is lined and rugged, and he carries himself with the quiet authority of a man used to responsibility. In the image, he appears plainly dressed in layered, functional clothing, with a cloak and work gear suggesting a life spent fishing, travelling and labouring by the coast. He should read visually as a capable, seasoned rural man rather than a refined or polished figure.

==Character==

Fabra is cautious, shrewd and deeply practical. He is not fond of the Priestesses and despises their rule, but unlike some of the others he understands survival first and ideology second. He is steady, observant and hard to rattle, and he prefers plans that are realistic, discreet and based on local knowledge. He has a protective streak, especially toward his family and guests, but he is not sentimental about danger.

He is a hard-working fisherman and trader who has built his life around crab fishing and keeping his household and business running. He understands the risks of helping the Maddisons, yet he does so anyway, accepting the danger as part of resistance. He is not a romantic rebel; he is the sort of man who “pokes the giant” because he believes it is worth doing, even if victory seems unlikely.

Fabra is also authoritative and somewhat paternal. He often takes charge when decisions need to be made, and he is not afraid to contradict Luke or Susan when they are being impulsive. At the same time, he is fair-minded and willing to listen, even when he disagrees. He treats the younger characters as people whose concerns matter, but he expects them to be sensible and obedient in return.

==Speech==

Fabra speaks plainly, directly and with the confidence of someone used to being obeyed. His speech is practical rather than emotional, and he often gives instructions in a no-nonsense way. He tends to explain things clearly and efficiently, especially when he is teaching the others about the land, the routes, or the customs of Altierra.

He often uses short, firm statements and pragmatic observations. He is not especially chatty, and when he does speak at length, it is usually to outline a plan, give a warning, or make a point about consequences. His tone can become mildly amused or dry, especially when correcting the others or responding to their unfamiliar ideas.

He also sounds older and more rooted in local life than the Maddisons, using practical phrasing and the language of work, fishing and travel. When he disagrees, he tends to do so bluntly but without needless cruelty. Overall, his speech suggests a man who values common sense, caution and experience over idealism.

==Timeline==

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Year !! Age !! Event
|-
| 511 || - || Fabra born
|-
| 513 || 2 || Elisa born
|-
| 531 || 20 || Married to Elisa
|-
| 533 || 22 || Raf born
|-
| 538 || 27 || Elisa killed
|-
| 541 || 30 || Moves to Elísal
|-
| 556 || 45 || Encounters the Maddisons
|}

==Images==

[[Category:Characters]]
[[Category:In Progress]]

Alucio

2026-08-18T07:58:04Z

LairaG: /* Timeline */

{{CharacterPanel
| name = Alucio
| image = Head_Alucio.jpg
| race = Altierran
| aka= Nazaro (pseudonym)
| born = 517
| died =
| occupation = Hunter
| insequel = yes
| family = [[Elisa]] (sister)<br>[[Genita]] (wife)
}}

Alucio is the [[Maddisons|Maddison]] siblings' first ally in Altierra — a hunter who rescues them from a Guardia patrol in the woods and becomes the strategist, guide, and leader of every subsequent rescue attempt. He is the character who understands Altierra's politics, geography, and social customs, and who translates that knowledge into actionable plans. Without Alucio, the Maddisons would have been captured or killed within hours of arriving; with him, they mount a dangerous infiltration of Rocosa and a successful rescue at Sometria. He returns to his wife [[Genita]] and the hunt after the Maddisons settle, reappearing in the epilogue as Luke's nearest neighbour.

==Appearance==

Alucio's face is "rough and scarred, deeply tanned from a lifetime outside, but not unfriendly" — the first description the novel gives, when he throws back his hood after rescuing the children. His appearance reflects his life as a hunter and outdoorsman: weathered, practical, and hardened by years in the hills. Susan compares him to a cat on watch — "Alucio sat alert, like a cat on watch; Susan half-expected to see his ears twitching" — suggesting a lean, coiled physicality.

His exact age is unstated; he is an adult contemporary of Fabra's family, six years younger than Fabra, who has a grown son. He wears Altierran outdoor clothing: a hooded cloak fastened at the neck, boots, and practical garments suited to tracking through rough terrain. He carries a knife, which he uses during the Rocosa infiltration — kicking down a door with blade extended. No further physical details are given in the novel beyond his scarred, tanned face and his alert, capable bearing.

The reference photo shows the following details not explicit in the novel text: dark brown, thick, medium-length hair styled messily with strands falling over the forehead and temples; a full, short-cropped dark beard and moustache; dark brown or hazel eyes set under a prominent, slightly furrowed brow; a rectangular face with a strong, well-defined jawline; a fair to olive complexion showing signs of weathering and tanning from outdoor exposure, with subtle lines around the eyes and forehead; a sturdy, athletic build with broad shoulders.

==Character==

Alucio is defined by competence, quiet authority, and a strategic mind that balances caution with decisive action. He first appears as a rescuer — throwing himself across Susan's back in the undergrowth, whispering "Stay still" as a Guardia patrol passes, then leading the children to safety. This first impression sets the pattern: Alucio appears when danger is imminent, acts without hesitation, and expects immediate compliance.

He is a tracker and woodsman of exceptional skill. When Emily runs away alone, he finds her trail not by footprints but by a freshly broken branch, "low down, hinting that a small person had passed." During the escape from Sometria, he leads the group through thick undergrowth, down hollows and over rocks, "the others intent on just keeping up with him." He hoists Meg over his shoulder when she is screaming and cannot run, carrying her through the woods with a strength that the Maddison siblings cannot match. His physical capability is never showy — it is simply the foundation of everything he does.

He is the group's strategist. Every plan — the Madesto confrontation, the Rocosa infiltration, the Bestia kidnapping, the Sometria rescue — originates with Alucio or is shaped by his tactical input. He thinks in terms of reconnaissance, timing, and risk: "We wait another three hours or so until the night is far in." He insists on careful preparation: when Luke wants to rush to the Cregan immediately, Alucio overrides him — "This is something that needs careful thought." He is willing to take risks, but only calculated ones, and he is honest about the odds: "It's dangerous. If they catch us, you'll be in the same plight as Meg."

He is a natural leader who consults rather than commands. When presenting the Sometria plan, he asks each person in turn for their opinion — including Emily: "And lastly, Emily. You have a voice as well." He accepts objections and modifies plans based on input, but he is firm when he needs to be: "No, it's too risky. I'd prefer to go alone but Nena will be able to give me information so she has to come." The Maddisons defer to him not because he demands it but because his judgement has repeatedly proven sound.

He is morally principled without being sentimental. He proposes kidnapping a Bestia for information — a plan that troubles Luke — but promises "I promise we'll treat her with all decency. And we'll release her as soon as we have Meg. She won't suffer." During the capture, Luke preserves Nena's modesty when her chemise rides up; Alucio handles the practical work of binding her wrists. He unties her on the beach before sailing and apologises for the restraint: "I'm sorry I had to tie you up, but I couldn't allow you to run away." His morality is practical: he does what is necessary without inflicting unnecessary suffering.

He is compassionate in understated ways. When the Rocosa rescue fails and Susan is despondent, he sits beside her and wraps an arm around her shoulders: "It's not been wasted. At least we know where Meg is now." He comforts without minimising, and redirects despair into planning. At the portal farewell, Susan asks him to give her love to Raf and not to fill in the tunnel; Alucio responds with characteristic warmth beneath a wry surface: "I won't. I'll hide it well."

He is also a teacher. He explains Altierran political structure, geography, and social customs to the Maddisons, patient as their "heads swarmed with Spanish-sounding names of towns and ranks." He and Raf teach Susan the Bestia ways — curtseying, deference, the vocabulary of "master" and "lord" — in private, recognising her discomfort. He shares his own backstory with Luke on the road to Rocosa: "We grew up in Peyrol. My family and Fabra's. Our families were fishermen — ordinary people." He was "never that happy with being on the water" and turned to hunting and the hills — a quiet rejection of the family trade that shaped his entire life.

He is not a wandering hero. He has a wife, Genita, a home in the hills, and a life as a hunter that he returns to after the crisis. When the Maddisons settle at Elísal, he soon goes back to Genita and the hunt, reappearing when his help is needed — to search for the portal, to bid farewell. By the epilogue, he lives near Luke and Nena, his nearest neighbours, a quiet presence in the background of their new life.

In summary: competent, strategic, principled, and quietly compassionate. He is the adult the Maddisons need — steady where they are impulsive, knowledgeable where they are ignorant, and willing to risk his life for people he owes nothing to.

==Speech==

Alucio's speech is Altierran English — fluent, direct, and marked by a few archaic constructions that distinguish him from the Maddisons' modern British register. He uses "may hap" for "perhaps" and "naught" for "nothing," and his affirmative "aye" places him firmly in Altierran vernacular. These markers are subtle but consistent, signalling his native identity without making his speech difficult to follow.

He is direct and commanding when the situation demands it. "Stay still." "No sounds yet." "Come out now." These first words to the Maddisons are imperative and clipped — no preamble, no explanation. In moments of danger, his speech becomes minimalist, stripped to essential instructions: "We'll hide, you carry on." "Watch her, I'll get the rope." This economy reflects a lifetime of acting under pressure where wasted words can be dangerous.

He is more expansive when teaching or planning. His explanation of Altierran politics, while eventually overwhelming the tired Maddisons, is patient and thorough. He presents the Sometria plan methodically, walking through each element before asking for input. His teaching register is Socratic — he asks questions and waits for responses rather than lecturing: "Are you happy, Susan?" He includes Emily in the discussion with "You have a voice as well," a phrase that captures his instinct to consult rather than exclude.

He can be sharp when overridden. When Luke suggests rushing to the Cregan, Alucio's response is blunt: "People don't choose to go to the Cregan, boy." The "boy" is deliberate — a reminder that Luke, despite his age, does not understand Altierra. He is equally sharp with Susan when she attracts attention in Peyrol: "I told you to be quiet. You attract too much attention." These moments are not cruel but firm — the sharpness of a man responsible for keeping people alive.

His humour is dry and understated. When Madesto complains that his genitals itch and begs to be released, Alucio's response is flat and unyielding: "Just live with it." His farewell exchange with Susan at the portal — promising "I won't" fill in the tunnel and "I'll hide it well" — is warm beneath a jocular surface, both practical and tender.

He uses Altierran terms naturally — Sombras (nightfall), Alba (dawn), and the ranks of Bestia and Priestess hierarchy — without pausing to translate, because for him these are not foreign terms but the vocabulary of daily life. This natural usage contrasts with the Maddisons' halting adoption of the same words.

A representative line that captures his voice: "This is something that needs careful thought." — measured, strategic, and patient, yet carrying the implicit promise that the thought will lead to action.

==Timeline==

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Year !! Age !! Event
|-
| 517 || - || Born
|-
| 538 || 21 || Elisa killed
|-
| 541 || 24 || Moves to the woods
|-
| 556 || 39 || Maddisons enter Altierra
|}

==Images==

[[File:Alucio1.jpg|thumb|center|400px|''Alucio in the woods'']]

[[File:Genita1.jpg|thumb|center|800px|''Genita in their home'']]

[[Category:Characters]]
[[Category:In Progress]]

Alucio

2026-08-18T07:50:18Z

LairaG:

{{CharacterPanel
| name = Alucio
| image = Head_Alucio.jpg
| race = Altierran
| aka= Nazaro (pseudonym)
| born = 517
| died =
| occupation = Hunter
| insequel = yes
| family = [[Elisa]] (sister)<br>[[Genita]] (wife)
}}

Alucio is the [[Maddisons|Maddison]] siblings' first ally in Altierra — a hunter who rescues them from a Guardia patrol in the woods and becomes the strategist, guide, and leader of every subsequent rescue attempt. He is the character who understands Altierra's politics, geography, and social customs, and who translates that knowledge into actionable plans. Without Alucio, the Maddisons would have been captured or killed within hours of arriving; with him, they mount a dangerous infiltration of Rocosa and a successful rescue at Sometria. He returns to his wife [[Genita]] and the hunt after the Maddisons settle, reappearing in the epilogue as Luke's nearest neighbour.

==Appearance==

Alucio's face is "rough and scarred, deeply tanned from a lifetime outside, but not unfriendly" — the first description the novel gives, when he throws back his hood after rescuing the children. His appearance reflects his life as a hunter and outdoorsman: weathered, practical, and hardened by years in the hills. Susan compares him to a cat on watch — "Alucio sat alert, like a cat on watch; Susan half-expected to see his ears twitching" — suggesting a lean, coiled physicality.

His exact age is unstated; he is an adult contemporary of Fabra's family, six years younger than Fabra, who has a grown son. He wears Altierran outdoor clothing: a hooded cloak fastened at the neck, boots, and practical garments suited to tracking through rough terrain. He carries a knife, which he uses during the Rocosa infiltration — kicking down a door with blade extended. No further physical details are given in the novel beyond his scarred, tanned face and his alert, capable bearing.

The reference photo shows the following details not explicit in the novel text: dark brown, thick, medium-length hair styled messily with strands falling over the forehead and temples; a full, short-cropped dark beard and moustache; dark brown or hazel eyes set under a prominent, slightly furrowed brow; a rectangular face with a strong, well-defined jawline; a fair to olive complexion showing signs of weathering and tanning from outdoor exposure, with subtle lines around the eyes and forehead; a sturdy, athletic build with broad shoulders.

==Character==

Alucio is defined by competence, quiet authority, and a strategic mind that balances caution with decisive action. He first appears as a rescuer — throwing himself across Susan's back in the undergrowth, whispering "Stay still" as a Guardia patrol passes, then leading the children to safety. This first impression sets the pattern: Alucio appears when danger is imminent, acts without hesitation, and expects immediate compliance.

He is a tracker and woodsman of exceptional skill. When Emily runs away alone, he finds her trail not by footprints but by a freshly broken branch, "low down, hinting that a small person had passed." During the escape from Sometria, he leads the group through thick undergrowth, down hollows and over rocks, "the others intent on just keeping up with him." He hoists Meg over his shoulder when she is screaming and cannot run, carrying her through the woods with a strength that the Maddison siblings cannot match. His physical capability is never showy — it is simply the foundation of everything he does.

He is the group's strategist. Every plan — the Madesto confrontation, the Rocosa infiltration, the Bestia kidnapping, the Sometria rescue — originates with Alucio or is shaped by his tactical input. He thinks in terms of reconnaissance, timing, and risk: "We wait another three hours or so until the night is far in." He insists on careful preparation: when Luke wants to rush to the Cregan immediately, Alucio overrides him — "This is something that needs careful thought." He is willing to take risks, but only calculated ones, and he is honest about the odds: "It's dangerous. If they catch us, you'll be in the same plight as Meg."

He is a natural leader who consults rather than commands. When presenting the Sometria plan, he asks each person in turn for their opinion — including Emily: "And lastly, Emily. You have a voice as well." He accepts objections and modifies plans based on input, but he is firm when he needs to be: "No, it's too risky. I'd prefer to go alone but Nena will be able to give me information so she has to come." The Maddisons defer to him not because he demands it but because his judgement has repeatedly proven sound.

He is morally principled without being sentimental. He proposes kidnapping a Bestia for information — a plan that troubles Luke — but promises "I promise we'll treat her with all decency. And we'll release her as soon as we have Meg. She won't suffer." During the capture, Luke preserves Nena's modesty when her chemise rides up; Alucio handles the practical work of binding her wrists. He unties her on the beach before sailing and apologises for the restraint: "I'm sorry I had to tie you up, but I couldn't allow you to run away." His morality is practical: he does what is necessary without inflicting unnecessary suffering.

He is compassionate in understated ways. When the Rocosa rescue fails and Susan is despondent, he sits beside her and wraps an arm around her shoulders: "It's not been wasted. At least we know where Meg is now." He comforts without minimising, and redirects despair into planning. At the portal farewell, Susan asks him to give her love to Raf and not to fill in the tunnel; Alucio responds with characteristic warmth beneath a wry surface: "I won't. I'll hide it well."

He is also a teacher. He explains Altierran political structure, geography, and social customs to the Maddisons, patient as their "heads swarmed with Spanish-sounding names of towns and ranks." He and Raf teach Susan the Bestia ways — curtseying, deference, the vocabulary of "master" and "lord" — in private, recognising her discomfort. He shares his own backstory with Luke on the road to Rocosa: "We grew up in Peyrol. My family and Fabra's. Our families were fishermen — ordinary people." He was "never that happy with being on the water" and turned to hunting and the hills — a quiet rejection of the family trade that shaped his entire life.

He is not a wandering hero. He has a wife, Genita, a home in the hills, and a life as a hunter that he returns to after the crisis. When the Maddisons settle at Elísal, he soon goes back to Genita and the hunt, reappearing when his help is needed — to search for the portal, to bid farewell. By the epilogue, he lives near Luke and Nena, his nearest neighbours, a quiet presence in the background of their new life.

In summary: competent, strategic, principled, and quietly compassionate. He is the adult the Maddisons need — steady where they are impulsive, knowledgeable where they are ignorant, and willing to risk his life for people he owes nothing to.

==Speech==

Alucio's speech is Altierran English — fluent, direct, and marked by a few archaic constructions that distinguish him from the Maddisons' modern British register. He uses "may hap" for "perhaps" and "naught" for "nothing," and his affirmative "aye" places him firmly in Altierran vernacular. These markers are subtle but consistent, signalling his native identity without making his speech difficult to follow.

He is direct and commanding when the situation demands it. "Stay still." "No sounds yet." "Come out now." These first words to the Maddisons are imperative and clipped — no preamble, no explanation. In moments of danger, his speech becomes minimalist, stripped to essential instructions: "We'll hide, you carry on." "Watch her, I'll get the rope." This economy reflects a lifetime of acting under pressure where wasted words can be dangerous.

He is more expansive when teaching or planning. His explanation of Altierran politics, while eventually overwhelming the tired Maddisons, is patient and thorough. He presents the Sometria plan methodically, walking through each element before asking for input. His teaching register is Socratic — he asks questions and waits for responses rather than lecturing: "Are you happy, Susan?" He includes Emily in the discussion with "You have a voice as well," a phrase that captures his instinct to consult rather than exclude.

He can be sharp when overridden. When Luke suggests rushing to the Cregan, Alucio's response is blunt: "People don't choose to go to the Cregan, boy." The "boy" is deliberate — a reminder that Luke, despite his age, does not understand Altierra. He is equally sharp with Susan when she attracts attention in Peyrol: "I told you to be quiet. You attract too much attention." These moments are not cruel but firm — the sharpness of a man responsible for keeping people alive.

His humour is dry and understated. When Madesto complains that his genitals itch and begs to be released, Alucio's response is flat and unyielding: "Just live with it." His farewell exchange with Susan at the portal — promising "I won't" fill in the tunnel and "I'll hide it well" — is warm beneath a jocular surface, both practical and tender.

He uses Altierran terms naturally — Sombras (nightfall), Alba (dawn), and the ranks of Bestia and Priestess hierarchy — without pausing to translate, because for him these are not foreign terms but the vocabulary of daily life. This natural usage contrasts with the Maddisons' halting adoption of the same words.

A representative line that captures his voice: "This is something that needs careful thought." — measured, strategic, and patient, yet carrying the implicit promise that the thought will lead to action.

==Timeline==

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Year !! Age !! Event
|-
| 517 || - || Born
|-
| 5xx || 00 || xxxx
|-
| 556 || 39 || Maddisons enter Altierra
|}

==Images==

[[File:Alucio1.jpg|thumb|center|400px|''Alucio in the woods'']]

[[File:Genita1.jpg|thumb|center|800px|''Genita in their home'']]

[[Category:Characters]]
[[Category:In Progress]]

Elisa

2026-08-18T07:49:36Z

LairaG:

{{CharacterPanel
| name = Elisa
| image = Head_Elisa.jpg
| race = Altierran
| aka=
| born = 513
| died = 538
| occupation = Bestia
| family = [[Alucio]] (sister)<br>[[Fabra]] (husband)<br>[[Raf]] (son)
}}

Elisa was the sister of Alucio, husband of Fabra and mother of Raf, and a prominent figure in the fishing village of [[Peyrol]], remembered for her strength of character and her ultimate sacrifice during a time of great seasonal hardship.

Elisa was a strong-willed leader who commanded the respect of her community. During a year of failing crops and relentless rain, she became the voice of her village when they were targeted by the Priestesses.

When the Cregan sent their Guardia to seize the village's essential food supplies for a second time in two months, the community faced a choice between submission and starvation. Elisa led the villagers in a stand against this systemic theft.

Her death was a direct result of her bravery and defiance:
* The Confrontation: Elisa engaged in a heated argument with the Handmaiden overseeing the Guardia.
* The Sentence: This act of defiance "sealed her fate", marking her as a primary target for the Cregan’s cruelty.
* The Execution: In a brutal display of power intended to intimidate the survivors, the Guardia marched her into the sea and drowned her in front of the entire village.

''Note: when Fabra moved to a new home after the murder, he named it [[Elísal]] in her honour.''

==Timeline==

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Year !! Age !! Event
|-
| 513 || - || Elisa born
|-
| 531 || 18 || Married to Fabra
|-
| 533 || 20 || Raf born
|-
| 538 || 25 || Elisa killed
|}

==Images==

[[Category:Characters]]
[[Category:In Progress]]

Valdez

2026-08-17T17:48:34Z

LairaG: /* Speech */

{{CharacterPanel
| name = Valdez
| image = Head_Valdez.jpg
| race = Altierran
| aka=
| born = 513
| died =
| occupation = Soldier
| insequel = yes
| family =
}}

Valdez is a Guardia Marischal at [[Rocosa]], tasked with finding the [[Mundumbra]] portal. He interrogated [[Meg Maddison]] when she was brought there and was fascinated by her hair and exotic origin. He hoped to obtain her as a personal Bestia if he succeeded in his mission.

After Meg escaped from Sometria, he joined the [[Dark Wolves]] to pursue her, taking a demotion in the process.

==Appearance==

Marshal Valdez is a powerfully built, older man with a broad, imposing frame. He has closely cropped grey hair, a full white beard and a deeply lined, weathered face that suggests years of military service. His expression is stern and watchful, with a hard, controlled gaze. In the image-based interpretation, he wears decorated armour beneath a dark cloak, presenting himself as a senior military officer rather than an ordinary soldier. His appearance should convey authority, physical strength and a sense of controlled danger.

==Character==

Marshal Valdez is an experienced, ruthless and intimidating officer of the Guardia. He is tasked with interrogating Meg and discovering the origin of the portal, and he approaches this duty with the confidence of a man accustomed to using fear and violence to obtain obedience. He sees prisoners primarily as sources of information and has little concern for their dignity or emotional wellbeing.

Valdez is methodical rather than impulsive. His interrogation of Meg is carefully structured: he begins with questions, examines her clothing and possessions, tests her explanations, and then escalates to physical punishment when she refuses to co-operate. He understands that Meg is hiding information, and his persistence makes him dangerous even when he does not immediately resort to violence.

He is also sexually predatory. His interest in Meg’s unusual appearance quickly becomes entangled with his desire to possess her, and he treats her vulnerability as an opportunity. He views Bestia as property and appears to believe that official authority entitles him to control both their bodies and their futures. His treatment of Vila shows the same possessive attitude: he objects to her damaging what he considers his property, but his concern is ownership rather than compassion.

Despite his brutality, Valdez is not entirely uncontrolled. He follows orders from Jesenia, recognises the limits placed upon him by her authority, and can behave with calculated restraint when necessary. He is capable of gentleness when it serves his purposes, as when he questions Meg after her beating, but that gentleness never removes the underlying threat. His apparent calm is part of his power.

==Speech==

Valdez speaks in a controlled, authoritative manner, using short questions and commands to pressure his prisoners. He expects to be addressed as “sir” and reacts sharply when Meg fails to do so. His language is formal enough to reflect his rank, but it becomes blunt and threatening during interrogation.

He often repeats questions when he believes an answer is evasive, gradually narrowing the space in which the other person can respond. His threats are delivered without theatrical excitement; he speaks of punishment, pain and possession as though they are ordinary professional matters. This calmness makes him more frightening than an officer who simply loses his temper.

Valdez also uses calculated personal remarks. He comments on Meg’s hair, clothing and unusual appearance, allowing his interest to intrude into the interrogation. His tone can shift suddenly from official questioning to intimate menace, particularly when he suggests that he will claim Meg for himself.

When speaking to Jesenia, he becomes deferential and cautious, addressing her as “Domina” and accepting her authority even when he disagrees. With subordinates and prisoners, however, he is commanding and contemptuous. His speech therefore changes according to power: respectful upward, threatening downward, and always designed to establish control.

==Timeline==

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Year !! Age !! Event
|-
| 513 || - || Born
|-
| 5xx || 00 || Becomes Marischal
|-
| 556 || 43 || Maddisons enter Altierra
|-
| 5xx || xx || Takes a demotion to lead the Dark Wolves
|-
| 5xx || xx || Meets Meg in the Heartwild
|}

==Images==

[[File:Valdez1.jpg|thumb|center|400px|''Valdez at Rocosa'']]

[[Category:Characters]]
[[Category:In Progress]]

Valdez

2026-08-17T17:47:43Z

LairaG: /* Character */

{{CharacterPanel
| name = Valdez
| image = Head_Valdez.jpg
| race = Altierran
| aka=
| born = 513
| died =
| occupation = Soldier
| insequel = yes
| family =
}}

Valdez is a Guardia Marischal at [[Rocosa]], tasked with finding the [[Mundumbra]] portal. He interrogated [[Meg Maddison]] when she was brought there and was fascinated by her hair and exotic origin. He hoped to obtain her as a personal Bestia if he succeeded in his mission.

After Meg escaped from Sometria, he joined the [[Dark Wolves]] to pursue her, taking a demotion in the process.

==Appearance==

Marshal Valdez is a powerfully built, older man with a broad, imposing frame. He has closely cropped grey hair, a full white beard and a deeply lined, weathered face that suggests years of military service. His expression is stern and watchful, with a hard, controlled gaze. In the image-based interpretation, he wears decorated armour beneath a dark cloak, presenting himself as a senior military officer rather than an ordinary soldier. His appearance should convey authority, physical strength and a sense of controlled danger.

==Character==

Marshal Valdez is an experienced, ruthless and intimidating officer of the Guardia. He is tasked with interrogating Meg and discovering the origin of the portal, and he approaches this duty with the confidence of a man accustomed to using fear and violence to obtain obedience. He sees prisoners primarily as sources of information and has little concern for their dignity or emotional wellbeing.

Valdez is methodical rather than impulsive. His interrogation of Meg is carefully structured: he begins with questions, examines her clothing and possessions, tests her explanations, and then escalates to physical punishment when she refuses to co-operate. He understands that Meg is hiding information, and his persistence makes him dangerous even when he does not immediately resort to violence.

He is also sexually predatory. His interest in Meg’s unusual appearance quickly becomes entangled with his desire to possess her, and he treats her vulnerability as an opportunity. He views Bestia as property and appears to believe that official authority entitles him to control both their bodies and their futures. His treatment of Vila shows the same possessive attitude: he objects to her damaging what he considers his property, but his concern is ownership rather than compassion.

Despite his brutality, Valdez is not entirely uncontrolled. He follows orders from Jesenia, recognises the limits placed upon him by her authority, and can behave with calculated restraint when necessary. He is capable of gentleness when it serves his purposes, as when he questions Meg after her beating, but that gentleness never removes the underlying threat. His apparent calm is part of his power.

==Speech==

==Timeline==

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Year !! Age !! Event
|-
| 513 || - || Born
|-
| 5xx || 00 || Becomes Marischal
|-
| 556 || 43 || Maddisons enter Altierra
|-
| 5xx || xx || Takes a demotion to lead the Dark Wolves
|-
| 5xx || xx || Meets Meg in the Heartwild
|}

==Images==

[[File:Valdez1.jpg|thumb|center|400px|''Valdez at Rocosa'']]

[[Category:Characters]]
[[Category:In Progress]]

Valdez

2026-08-17T17:46:45Z

LairaG: /* Character */

{{CharacterPanel
| name = Valdez
| image = Head_Valdez.jpg
| race = Altierran
| aka=
| born = 513
| died =
| occupation = Soldier
| insequel = yes
| family =
}}

Valdez is a Guardia Marischal at [[Rocosa]], tasked with finding the [[Mundumbra]] portal. He interrogated [[Meg Maddison]] when she was brought there and was fascinated by her hair and exotic origin. He hoped to obtain her as a personal Bestia if he succeeded in his mission.

After Meg escaped from Sometria, he joined the [[Dark Wolves]] to pursue her, taking a demotion in the process.

==Appearance==

Marshal Valdez is a powerfully built, older man with a broad, imposing frame. He has closely cropped grey hair, a full white beard and a deeply lined, weathered face that suggests years of military service. His expression is stern and watchful, with a hard, controlled gaze. In the image-based interpretation, he wears decorated armour beneath a dark cloak, presenting himself as a senior military officer rather than an ordinary soldier. His appearance should convey authority, physical strength and a sense of controlled danger.

==Character==

Marshal Valdez is an experienced, ruthless and intimidating officer of the Guardia. He is tasked with interrogating Meg and discovering the origin of the portal, and he approaches this duty with the confidence of a man accustomed to using fear and violence to obtain obedience. He sees prisoners primarily as sources of information and has little concern for their dignity or emotional wellbeing.

Valdez is methodical rather than impulsive. His interrogation of Meg is carefully structured: he begins with questions, examines her clothing and possessions, tests her explanations, and then escalates to physical punishment when she refuses to cooperate. He understands that Meg is hiding information, and his persistence makes him dangerous even when he does not immediately resort to violence.

He is also sexually predatory. His interest in Meg’s unusual appearance quickly becomes entangled with his desire to possess her, and he treats her vulnerability as an opportunity. He views Bestia as property and appears to believe that official authority entitles him to control both their bodies and their futures. His treatment of Vila shows the same possessive attitude: he objects to her damaging what he considers his property, but his concern is ownership rather than compassion.

Despite his brutality, Valdez is not entirely uncontrolled. He follows orders from Jesenia, recognises the limits placed upon him by her authority, and can behave with calculated restraint when necessary. He is capable of gentleness when it serves his purposes, as when he questions Meg after her beating, but that gentleness never removes the underlying threat. His apparent calm is part of his power.

==Speech==

==Timeline==

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Year !! Age !! Event
|-
| 513 || - || Born
|-
| 5xx || 00 || Becomes Marischal
|-
| 556 || 43 || Maddisons enter Altierra
|-
| 5xx || xx || Takes a demotion to lead the Dark Wolves
|-
| 5xx || xx || Meets Meg in the Heartwild
|}

==Images==

[[File:Valdez1.jpg|thumb|center|400px|''Valdez at Rocosa'']]

[[Category:Characters]]
[[Category:In Progress]]

Valdez

2026-08-17T17:46:28Z

LairaG: /* Appearance */

Dark Wolves

2026-08-17T17:45:56Z

LairaG: /* Characters */

These are a specialist corps of Guardia, a kind of snatch squad, whose purpose is to track down runaway Bestia and return them to their establishment.

==Etymology==
The name ''Redentores'' comes from the Spanish for "Redeemer".

Runagate is sixteenth-century variant of "renegade" and means a vagabond, fugitive, or renegade.

==Appearance==
The corps dress in black cloaks and tunics :
* to differentiate them from other Guardia
* as camouflage whilst tracking
* to appear more threatening and intimidating

==Notes==

Their official name is ''Redentores'' but both they and others know them as Dark wolves because of their dark uniforms and the persistence in tracking (like the animals).

The missing Bestia are known as Runagates. It is considered irrelevant whether the Bestia have actually fled, been kidnapped or have just got lost. If they are absent, they are Runagates (although their punishment may vary depending on the cause of their absence).

==Characters==

Named Dark Wolves:

* [[Valdez]] (in the sequel).

{{CasteNavigation}}

[[Category:Caste System]]

File:Valdez1.jpg

2026-08-17T17:39:14Z

LairaG: LairaG uploaded a new version of File:Valdez1.jpg

== Summary ==
Marischel Valdez of Rocosa

[[Category:Character images]]

File:Head Valdez.jpg

2026-08-17T17:38:13Z

LairaG: LairaG uploaded a new version of File:Head Valdez.jpg

== Summary ==
Marischal Valdez

[[Category:Headshots]]
[[Category:Character images]]

Valdez

2026-08-17T17:24:52Z

LairaG:

Valdez

2026-08-17T17:24:37Z

LairaG:

Dark Wolves

2026-08-17T17:22:15Z

LairaG: /* Notes */

Dark Wolves

2026-08-17T17:21:43Z

LairaG: /* Characters */

Dark Wolves

2026-08-17T17:21:05Z

LairaG: /* Characters */

These are a specialist corps of Guardia, a kind of snatch squad, whose purpose is to track down runaway Bestia and return them to their establishment.

==Etymology==
The name ''Redentores'' comes from the Spanish for "Redeemer".

Runagate is sixteenth-century variant of "renegade" and means a vagabond, fugitive, or renegade.

==Appearance==
The corps dress in black cloaks and tunics :
* to differentiate them from other Guardia
* as camouflage whilst tracking
* to appear more threatening and intimidating

==Notes==

Their official name is ''Redentores'' but both they and others know them as Dark wolves because of their dark uniforms and the persistence in tracking (like the animals).

The missing Bestia are known as Runagates. It is considered irrelevant whether the Bestia have actually fled, been kidnapped or have just got lost. If they are absent, they are Runagates (although their punishment may vary depending on the cause of their absence).

==Characters==

Named Dark Wolves:

* [[Agraciana]].

{{CasteNavigation}}

[[Category:Caste System]]

Dark Wolves

2026-08-17T17:20:21Z

LairaG: /* Appearance */

These are a specialist corps of Guardia, a kind of snatch squad, whose purpose is to track down runaway Bestia and return them to their establishment.

==Etymology==
The name ''Redentores'' comes from the Spanish for "Redeemer".

Runagate is sixteenth-century variant of "renegade" and means a vagabond, fugitive, or renegade.

==Appearance==
The corps dress in black cloaks and tunics :
* to differentiate them from other Guardia
* as camouflage whilst tracking
* to appear more threatening and intimidating

==Notes==

Their official name is ''Redentores'' but both they and others know them as Dark wolves because of their dark uniforms and the persistence in tracking (like the animals).

The missing Bestia are known as Runagates. It is considered irrelevant whether the Bestia have actually fled, been kidnapped or have just got lost. If they are absent, they are Runagates (although their punishment may vary depending on the cause of their absence).

==Characters==

Named Dark Wolves: ''none''

{{CasteNavigation}}

[[Category:Caste System]]

Dark Wolves

2026-08-17T17:19:54Z

LairaG: /* Etymology */

These are a specialist corps of Guardia, a kind of snatch squad, whose purpose is to track down runaway Bestia and return them to their establishment.

==Etymology==
The name ''Redentores'' comes from the Spanish for "Redeemer".

Runagate is sixteenth-century variant of "renegade" and means a vagabond, fugitive, or renegade.

==Appearance==
The corps dress in black cloaks and tunics :
* to differentiate them from other Guardia
* as camouflage whilst tracking
* to look threatening

==Notes==

Their official name is ''Redentores'' but both they and others know them as Dark wolves because of their dark uniforms and the persistence in tracking (like the animals).

The missing Bestia are known as Runagates. It is considered irrelevant whether the Bestia have actually fled, been kidnapped or have just got lost. If they are absent, they are Runagates (although their punishment may vary depending on the cause of their absence).

==Characters==

Named Dark Wolves: ''none''

{{CasteNavigation}}

[[Category:Caste System]]

Dark Wolves

2026-08-17T17:19:38Z

LairaG:

These are a specialist corps of Guardia, a kind of snatch squad, whose purpose is to track down runaway Bestia and return them to their establishment.

==Etymology==
The name ''Redentores' comes from the Spanish for "Redeemer".

Runagate is sixteenth-century variant of "renegade" and means a vagabond, fugitive, or renegade.

==Appearance==
The corps dress in black cloaks and tunics :
* to differentiate them from other Guardia
* as camouflage whilst tracking
* to look threatening

==Notes==

Their official name is ''Redentores'' but both they and others know them as Dark wolves because of their dark uniforms and the persistence in tracking (like the animals).

The missing Bestia are known as Runagates. It is considered irrelevant whether the Bestia have actually fled, been kidnapped or have just got lost. If they are absent, they are Runagates (although their punishment may vary depending on the cause of their absence).

==Characters==

Named Dark Wolves: ''none''

{{CasteNavigation}}

[[Category:Caste System]]

Dark Wolves

2026-08-17T17:14:20Z

LairaG:

These are a specialist corps of Guardia, a kind of snatch squad, whose purpose is to track down runaway Bestia and return them to their establishment.

Their official name is ''Redentores'' but both they and others know them as Dark wolves because of their dark uniforms and the persistence in tracking (like the animals).

The missing Bestia are known as Runagates. It is considered irrelevant whether the Bestia have actually fled, been kidnapped or have just got lost. If they are absent, they are Runagates (although their punishment may vary depending on the cause of their absence).

* Official name: Redentores
* Common name: Dark Wolves

The corps dress in black cloaks and tunics.

==Etymology==
Redentores

==Appearance==

==Notes==

==Characters==

Named Dark Wolves: ''none''

{{CasteNavigation}}

[[Category:Caste System]]