King Marek of Arden (Marek Thalen)

Appearance

• Broad-shouldered, silver-streaked beard, with the build of a man who still trains daily
• Wears a deep crimson cloak with bronze shoulder crests, symbol of Arden’s ruling line
• Carries a massive ceremonial sword called "Oathrender", said to be forged from sky-iron
• Stern eyes—blue like polished steel—quick to narrow when lies are told

Profile

King Marek rules over Arden, one of the most powerful and enduring city-states of ancient Edson. A seasoned warrior-king, Marek is both a guardian of tradition and a man burdened by the weight of history. His rule is marked by a balance of pragmatism and pride, and though his people revere him, he fears the growing instability of the outside world.

He is fiercely protective of his only daughter, Alara, and skeptical of strangers—especially the towering, mysterious figure named Vear, who appears from the stars bearing no history, or allegiance.

But Marek is not a fool. He recognizes strength when he sees it—and eventually, he must choose whether to cling to the past or trust in the unknown future Vear represents.

Personality Traits

• Wise, but cautious—values stability over risk
• Fiercely loyal to Arden and its people
• Proud of Alara, though challenged by her independence
• Holds a commanding presence in court and battlefield
• Wields diplomacy as sharply as his sword
• Slow to trust, but once earned, his loyalty is deep and unwavering

Legacy

• Remembered as the last great king of Arden before the fall
• His alliance with Vear, though controversial, becomes the basis for later myths
• Rumored to have died defending Arden in its final siege—or may have passed the crown to Alara before vanishing
• His tomb is lost to time, but ancient stones bear his name carved beside Vear’s