Akherien

When he was a child, Akherien's parents believed his magic was a curse from the Underworld. They locked him up, first in a room, then with chains, to prevent him from using his powers.

What they did not realise was that he would learn to cast magic without using his hands. It was in a spate of terror and rage at being chained up that he burned down their house and killed them. That history has left him with deep-seated fears of his own power and of being a burden or unworthy of others.

Katreia found him inside the burning house and leapt to rescue him at her own risk, then helped him secure an apprenticeship to the Castle of Dei-orin. Since then, he has striven to make the most of this new lease of life and to do her proud. He became employed as Lady Kalen's mage-servant, a job that he has taken eagerly to (though Katreia finds it boring).

• Katreia: Since Katreia saved Akherien, he has held her as the most important person in his life and has quietly devoted himself to her service, remaining fiercely loyal to her through many a trial. Their relationship is asymmetrical, however; Katreia sees him as one of her best friends, while Akherien feels unworthy of her.
• Sariell: Katreia's cousin and the first friend Akherien makes inside the castle, Sariell has striven to make him feel welcome in his new home.
• Cendreile: Perhaps the friend who understands him most clearly, Cendreile recognizes Akherien's hopes and fears, and the two confide in each other, sharing encouragement in moments when they most needs it.
• Enere: The castle's mage trainer holds Akherien in high regard, believing from the start that he is destined to become one of the castle's most valuable mages.
• Lady Kalen: Kalen, the younger sister of King Arten, is Akherien's employer. He is more than happy to wait on the noblewoman's every whim, and she is generous with praise in return. She often teases or is exasperated that his loyalties seem split between herself and the princess.

• His name is pronounced /ɑkˈhɛrɪən/