I recently wrote character spotlights of King Rexson’s three sons: Valkin, Neslan, and Hune. Before The Magic Council: The Fight for Home starts, the princes are kidnapped by a group interested in the politics of magic and in advancing magic’s cause politically.

While they are held captive in Ursa Hincken’s basement, Ursa’s sister August tells them stories. We get to listen in on parts of two of them, two critical ones: the stories of Sir Adage and Sir Brogle.

Sir Adage is a silly knight who speaks in clichés. His stories are funny and written for children. He is a coward, but he tries to pass himself off as brave. (He was inspired by Don Quixote–who genuinely is brave, mind you. I had to give my history studying Spanish lit some kind of nod!)

Sir Adage is perfect for the boys here, because he makes them laugh. He helps them feel better in dangerous, tough times. His stories also remind them (in a good way) of home.

I think we all have “comfort” stories–the stories we turn to when we need something to cheer us up and help us press on. Sir Adage is a comfort story for the princes.

The other story is that of Sir Brogle. We only get the VERY start of his inciting incident, but the implications are clear. Sir Brogle is a genuine hero, strong, selfless, and courageous. His story inspires the boys in their peril to be strong and courageous as well.

We all need stories that inspire us to become and to show the best versions of ourselves. It has always been my hope that in some way, for someone, my Herezoth trilogy will be that story for someone. I love my characters so much–precisely because they do challenge me in this way.