21. Inside Cecilia's Character Arc

Let's talk about Cecilia's character arc. Looking at those 6 questions from last week, I want to talk you through Cecilia's arc without any major spoilers.

One, what does Cecilia want? From the first few chapters alone, she wants to prove that the people and the High Council are wrong about her. She wants people to see that she has worth and value despite what the city leaders say. She's going to show this by continuing her role as a Guard and proving to the whole city that she can - and will - protect the white walls of Erebus

Two, what does she need? She needs to understand that there are more powerful forces at work. She needs to recognize that she is not in control of her circumstances, but she is in control of her own actions and how she responds to her situation. Despite her short comings, she needs to move forward despite her disadvantages.

Three, How will she change to get what she wants? She must stand strong. We see this time and time again all throughout her journey. She needs to endure with tenacity in the face of impossible odds. On top of that, she needs to gain the strength needed (physical, mental, and with her Aether abilities) to fulfill her goal of protecting the city.

Four, What lie does she believe. In her lowest moments all throughout the story, we see her give into anxiety, fear, and self-doubt. She believes that she's powerless and facing challenges that are simply to much for her to handle. She also is slowly learning of the lies of the High Council - realizing that their glossy veneer is not who they truly are.

Five, What truth must she accept in order to grow? She must accept that she does in fact have power - even if that power is rejected by the city. She must realize that she can make a difference so long as she doesn't back down or give up.

Six, What is her ghost/motivation? She knows she is innocent, but self doubt continues to seep in and slowly chip away at that thought. She knows the allegations against her are all a lie and she is trying her best to show the truth to the world.

What about her character dimensions that are in tension with each other?

Well, she is strong willed, but sees herself as week because of what the people say about her. She is extremely tenacious, but often overworks herself to the point of collapse. My favorite: She is not inherently skilled - she is no prodigy - but she works the hardest out of everyone around her.

Unfortunately, I can't reveal too much more. For that you'll have to read for yourself ;) Can't give the whole ball game away.

Next week is Christmas, so the newsletter might look a little different. I hope you have an amazing holiday and catch you in the new year!