When a battle-hardened half-demon stands at the crossroads of redemption and destruction, what choices will shape his fate? Welcome back to another blog counting down to the release of Sovereign Soul: Embers of Orden! Today, we’ll explore the intense journey of Faust Loccin and the art of character development.
Spoiler Alert: Reading on may give spoilers for Sovereign Soul: Akin Minds and offers teasers for Embers of Orden. If you haven’t read the first book yet, check it out here!
Faust Loccin makes his series debut in Harohto early in Embers of Orden. Initially among the company of raiders as a well-paid sellsword, Faust stands up against his fellow men when they commit certain atrocities before his eyes that he cannot stand for. He’s knocked out for presenting his doubts, but when the raiders are apprehended, Faust is given a chance to prove his value to the team.
Faust hails from the world of Id and is of the Luccian race, a tribe of half-demons. He has dark skin painted with red battle stripes, coarse silver hair, and blood-red eyes. He’s well-muscled and highly experienced in combat. Though often morally grey and apathetic, Faust has certain things he strives to protect and has little regard for his own standing. He wields swords and axes, usually fighting with both weapons at the same time, but is an improvisational battler who can use a multitude of weapons with proficiency.
“Sorry, kid. Now that I look, maybe I was acting rashly, but I’ll be damned if I’ll let anyone speak ill of ya in front of me.” – Faust Loccin, Embers of Orden Act 5, Scene 1.
Being of the Luccian race, Faust struggles with his demonic, malicious nature against his efforts to protect his friends. Despite a pockmarked past, his loyalty and witty humor add a nuanced layer to his character. From being given the chance to prove his worth to making a stalwart sacrifice, Faust’s journey is one striving for balance amid the chaos of a world turned on its head.
It’s no secret that the Sovereign Soul series is host to a wide cast of characters, but I strive to include a variety of diverse characters with intricate storylines and struggles of their own. Of complex narratives, Faust stands out as one of my clear favorites. His half-demon nature clashing with his strong moral values makes him an excellent ally to Ryoku, while also a dashing and alluring character for females of the series. He has a penchant for older women, but perhaps there’s a certain scarlet-haired warrior that might catch his eye?
From the onset of his tale to later scenes he’s featured in, Faust manages to portray an evolving character while still sticking to his roots and what makes him unique. I believe a truly compelling character doesn’t have to change their core to become good; sometimes it’s not just their development, either, but the development they inspire.
“Sometimes, treating a criminal like a criminal for the rest of their days doesn’t inspire change.” – Ryoku Dragontalen, Embers of Orden Act 4 Scene 2
Faust’s story erupts early into Embers of Orden as he contemplates his reasons for survival. What darkness lies within Faust’s heart? What led him to becoming a sellsword among Harohto’s worst? As the narrative unfolds, how will Faust’s internal crisis come to a boil?
Get ready for the truths Faust fights for in Sovereign Soul: Embers of Orden! Which character are you getting most excited about? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s get ready for the epic adventure to unfold this Winter 2024!
Sovereign Soul 