Areo Hottalar is a notable figure in the annals of the Astendil Empire, a realm known for its lush, sprawling forests and ethereal beauty. Born during the twilight of the Silver Age, Areo comes from a long line of noble elven lineage. The Hottalar family, once revered for their proficiency in ancient magic, now bears the weight of infamy shaped by Areo's tumultuous choices.
From a young age, his deep-set emerald eyes reflected a stubborn resolve. Residing in the magnificent, tree-canopied city of Eldalor, he was educated in the art of diplomacy, combat, and the preservation of elven lore. Despite excelling in these areas, he found himself overshadowed by his childhood friend, Damalion, the future ruler of the Astendil Empire. The elves of Astendil revered Damalion for his innate charisma and strategic mind, a stark contrast to Areo's often stern demeanor.
Areo’s gift, however, manifests in a different form: a powerful sorcery closely tied to the essence of the forest. Since childhood, he could call upon the whispers of the ancient trees, harnessing their lifeforce for spells of healing and protection. While his talents earned him respect, they also deepened his envy toward Damalion, especially as the latter's ascent to power became inevitable.
As the years flowed like seasons, the looming threat of the War of Spikes engulfed the elven lands. Rumors of encroaching darkness from the neighboring lands ignited fear among the elves of Astendil. Tensions soared, and many looked to Damalion, anticipating his leadership to ward off the impending conflict. Yet, in this time of peril, Areo’s desperation grew; he wished to grasp legitimacy and authority for himself, to rise above the shadows cast by his friend’s brilliance.
The betrayal occurred one starlit night after a council meeting at the Emerald Throne, where elven leaders gathered to strategize defenses. Under the pretext of friendship, Areo lured Damalion into an ancient grove, promising insights into a powerful sorcerous artifact hidden deep within the roots of the Elder Tree. There, amid the dappled moonlight, Areo revealed his true intentions. Fueled by sorrow and a sense of inadequacy, he launched a surprise attack on Damalion, wielding dark magic he had absorbed from the very essence of the land.
This act of treachery set off a chain reaction that plunged the empire into chaos. When news spread of Damalion’s fall, Areo, now drenched in blood and guilt, assumed a commendable front, promising unity and protection in the face of upheaval. But the weight of his actions haunted him, leading to a split in loyalty among the elves. On one hand, some rallied behind his seemingly resolute determination; on the other, whispers of treachery turned into rumors of a Justicar — an elf dedicated to seeking out those who commit heinous deeds against their kin.
As the War of Spikes escalates, Areo’s inner turmoil becomes increasingly palpable. He dons his dark green garment, a symbol of ambition, adorned with intricate patterns that tell stories of grief and betrayal. His once-innocent heart now harbors sorrow, and those azure eyes are clouded by guilt and fear of discovery.