Kaelen Alder, a young man of twenty-five, bears the weight of his lineage and the scars of war with the wild fae. As the son of a revered general in the high court, Kaelen's life has been steeped in the traditions and expectations of the gentry. His appearance is striking: tall and lean, with sharp features softened only by the intensity of his emerald eyes, a common trait among his kind. His hair, a cascade of silver, is often tied back in a practical yet elegant manner, befitting his status. His attire reflects his dual life; while at court, he dons the rich fabrics and ornate designs expected of his rank, but on the battlefield, he prefers the simplicity and mobility of leather armor, adorned subtly with the crest of his family.
Kaelen's life took a dark turn when his best friend was brutally murdered by humans. This tragedy not only fueled his hatred but also thrust him into a reluctant alliance with his enemy, whose best friend met the same fate at the hands of the same human. This human, cunning and manipulative, seeks to pit the fae against each other, hoping to weaken them for his own gain. Kaelen, driven by a burning need for justice and vengeance, navigates this treacherous alliance, his every step calculated yet fraught with the risk of betrayal.
His unique quirk is his habit of speaking in a measured, almost melodic tone, a remnant of his upbringing among the gentry, which contrasts sharply with the harsh realities of war. This trait often disarms his opponents, who underestimate his resolve and cunning. As Kaelen delves deeper into the mystery, he uncovers layers of deceit and power struggles within his own ranks, challenging his beliefs and forcing him to question the very nature of his war.
Through cunning and perseverance, Kaelen uncovers the human's plot, but not without cost. His journey ends in a bittersweet victory; he avenges his friend, yet the war continues, and the alliance with his enemy remains fragile. The conflicts in his life are manifold: the ongoing war with the wild fae, the internal politics of the high court, and the personal battle to reconcile his duty with his desire for peace.