Burkestein is the great king of Caloria in the Sogol gesta (campaign-cycle), head of the coalition of the kingdoms where there is still warmth. He rules from Karlstorf, the coastal capital.
| Type | Character (king) |
| Realm | Caloria |
| Seat | Karlstorf |
| Chronicle | SGL |
| Spanish entry | Burkestein |
Description
He is broad-shouldered, red-haired going gray, keeps weapons within reach and can still lead a battle. His subjects name him constantly: the convoy guards leave shouting ¡por Caloria! (“for Caloria!”), and a foreman promises that “the crown will be freed” once the weapons arrive. His war is fought for him by a thane in a steam city (Nothenvell), two redheads leading thirty sleds, and a company of outsiders.
History
He was first named around the convoy fire on day four of the Sogol gesta. The convoy’s tales placed Calíope and Bythamar Betheril under one enemy crown.
The company later met him in Karlstorf. He received Dandy’s representation and wished to meet the merchant whose help was offered, asking whether Sidqa would also sell to his enemies; license and exclusivity were not granted. He told of the logging, the forest peoples and the wounds received. When Adriel asked for other testimony, he allowed Gamada pacts, marriage or recognition of sovereignty, but saw Calíope as a threat he could not leave intact. He acknowledged fire elemental allies on his side.
He offered supplies and an escort to the forest. His men would not enter; if the queen came out, he would wait for her with the army. His hospitality still stands.
Open questions
- The equivalences between the names in the convoy’s tales (Calíope, Bythamar, Gamada) are not settled.
- He appears not to know of Gunhilda’s relationship with Dandy.