Blog Entry #4

Amelia may be the main character of The Fortana Chronicles, but Gabriel Smith is the anchor that keeps her grounded. Gabriel is introduced as a mysterious and enigmatic warrior in The Starlight Crystal, someone with enough adventuring experience that Amelia trusts him to escort her through the dangerous Enchanted Forest. There is an instant familiarity between the two, and in fact some evidence of a past working relationship. Gabriel is a towering presence, his personality nearly as intimidating as his physical stature. Little is known about his background. It’s clear that he has been a freelance adventurer for several years, but a darkness in his eyes hints at a past that is more than a little unpleasant.

Gabe is Amelia’s opposite in many ways…he is an experienced warrior while she is an apprentice mage. He utilizes hand-to-hand combat and sword fighting while she relies on her magic to get her out of sticky situations. He is a fight first, ask questions later type while she prefers peaceful and diplomatic resolutions in tense conflicts. He has a wide array of practical skills that equip him for survival in a world that she is just beginning to discover. These contrasts are a large part of what makes them an effective team, as their strengths and weaknesses compliment each other perfectly.

In spite of their differences, there are also several similarities that help them to form a strong bond throughout their adventures. In The Starlight Crystal, Amelia is initially surprised to realize that Gabriel has dealt with many of the insecurities that still plague her. Having been taken in by a group of mercenaries at a young age, Gabriel struggled with the same overwhelming desire to prove himself that he sees in the young apprentice. Although a bit more guarded than the emotional Amelia, Gabriel also cares strongly for those he loves and will do anything to uphold the power of the light in the fight against darkness. Gabriel has a particular fondness for children that is revealed as the story progresses and which Amelia finds very endearing.

Gabriel Smith is a complicated man, with dark secrets scattered throughout his past, but he is also the epitome of a hero. He is unselfish, generous and willing to go to any lengths to protect those closest to him. He has a very strong bond with Fortana’s resident mapmaker Thomas and his wife Joanna, who have known and guided him for a number of years. An even stronger bond is forged from his respect and admiration for Amelia, a bond that he may find he cannot live without. What the future holds for them, only the continuing saga of The Fortana Chronicles can say!

I hope to see you again next time for a deeper dive into the world and creatures of Fortana. Thanks for reading!

Dave