Introducing the Heroes of "Call of the Damned"
Sabi, Lyra, Caelen, and Maddox
Hello, fellow fantasy fans and adventure seekers! I'm excited to pull back the curtain on my upcoming novel, Call of the Damned. This gripping dark fantasy story follows a group of outcasts fleeing the brutal witch trials that have swept through their world. In a desperate bid for survival, they must embark on a perilous quest to forge the legendary Ouroboros—an ancient artifact symbolizing eternal cycles, said to hold the power to shatter curses and rewrite fate.
At the core of this tale are four unforgettable characters: Sabi, Lyra, Caelen, and Maddox. Their diverse backgrounds and skills force them into an uneasy alliance, where trust is hard-won and betrayal lurks in the shadows. Inspired by classic fantasy archetypes but twisted with modern depth, these heroes will draw you into a world of moral ambiguity and high-stakes drama.
Lyra:
The Elven Sharpshooter
Lyra is the graceful elven archer whose precision and agility make her an indispensable ally in the group's escape. With her flowing silver hair tied in a high ponytail, pointed ears, and piercing green eyes, she cuts a striking figure in her verdant forest garb—complete with feathered accents and a quiver of arrows. Hailing from the ancient woodlands now ravaged by the trials, Lyra's people have long been persecuted for their innate connection to nature's magic.
In Call of the Damned, Lyra's role is that of the vigilant scout and loyal friend, using her bow and keen senses to navigate treacherous terrains and fend off pursuers. Beneath her composed exterior lies a deep-seated rage against the inquisitors who destroyed her home. She's quick-witted, loyal to a fault, and her bond with the group grows as they race to assemble the Ouroboros.
Fun fact: Lyra's arrows are tipped with moonstone, embedded with power to strike any target.
Maddox:
The Stoic Warrior
Maddox is the battle-tested knight providing the brute strength and tactical prowess the group needs to survive. Towering and imposing, with short black hair, a stern gaze, and bronze skin marked by scars, he dons rugged green armor that speaks to his life on the front lines. Once a loyal healer.
His journey in the novel is one of gruff humor and unyielding honor, but his leadership shines in moments of crisis—like forging the Ouroboros amid relentless hunts.
Did you know? Maddox's sword bears runes that glow when near dark magic.
Caelen:
The Cunning Rogue
Caelen brings street smarts and shadowy skills to the ensemble, the young fighter who's mastered survival in a world that hunts the gifted. With tousled black hair, intense onyx eyes, and a red scarf accenting his green tunic and black leathers, he's often seen standing watch, dagger at the ready. Orphaned during early waves of the trials, Caelen grew up in the underbelly of society, honing his talents for stealth and deception.
In Call of the Damned, Caelen's arc explores themes of found family, as he transitions from a lone wolf to a vital team player. His lockpicking, trap-setting, and quick thinking are crucial for infiltrating forbidden sites to gather components for the Ouroboros. Witty and resourceful, yet haunted by loss, Caelen adds tension and levity to the group dynamic.
Pro tip: Caelen's hidden tattoos map out ancient secrets, however they have no way to be deciphered since not many Fae speak the old tongue since the veil was closed.
Sabi:
The Mystic Scholar
Rounding out the quartet is Sabi, the hooded mage whose arcane knowledge drives the quest forward. With her vibrant red hair peeking from a green hood, a blue cloak, Sabi embodies the forbidden wisdom at the heart of the story.
Sabi's strength is her intellect—she deciphers riddles, brews potions, and channels energies needed to create the Ouroboros. But her powers come at a cost, tempting her toward corruption. Throughout the novel, Sabi's vulnerability and determination forge deep connections with the others, making her the emotional core.
Fun fact: Sabi's staff holds a fragment of the Ouroboros' essence, symbolizing the eternal struggle against damnation.
Why These Characters Drive the Story
In Call of the Damned, Sabi, Lyra, Caelen, and Maddox aren't just survivors—they're catalysts for change in a world gripped by fear and fanaticism. As they evade Hunters, unravel mysteries, and assemble the Ouroboros, their personal growth and intertwined fates explore themes of persecution, unity, and the cost of power. This isn't a straightforward hero's journey; it's a dark, immersive tale where every choice echoes eternally.
I'm pouring my heart into this book, and I can't wait for you to experience their adventure. Call of the Damned is slated for release May 20th, 2026 —keep an eye out for teasers, artwork (like the character lineup above!), and more.
Which character are you most excited about? Lyra's precision, Maddox's might, Caelen's cunning, or Sabi's magic?
Thanks for reading,
Rinn Skyborn