Overview
Ulrich is a scholar on the Blackcrag council and a close advisor to George. He tutors Garrik in governance, history, and philosophy, briefs the council on Shroudvale, and speaks for Blackcrag's delegation during the defensive-alliance talks with Morindel.
History
Ulrich accompanies George and Bastian to Pelagia when Blackcrag asks Thiravos and Theryssa to send mages against Shroudvale. When Lucilla refuses to send Theryssa and Thiravos mages against Shroudvale, he sets Blackcrag's prepared terms before the consuls, agrees to trade essence-engine knowledge for an heir from Theryssa and Thiravos, and vows to keep Garrik's origin hidden. After Nero delivers the infant, Ulrich informs the council of the heir's birth and brings Astrid to George as the boy's teacher.
During Garrik's adulthood, Ulrich tracks Shroudvale's movements and judges Morindel Blackcrag's best prospective ally. He travels with Garrik and Astrid to Morindel City, speaks for the delegation, and asks Regent Magnus for a defensive alliance against essence shapers.
After Astrid brings the crystal heart from Morindel, Ulrich confronts Eremion when he reforms from the artifact, raising cosmic essence against him. Eremion later gives Ulrich history lessons and sways council members through private instruction, favors, and policy proposals. Ulrich objects to forced military service and echoes Garrik's concerns over harsher reforms. When Garrik and Astrid disappear, scouts fail to find them, and Ulrich questions who should rule Blackcrag in Garrik's absence.
Relationships
- George: King of Blackcrag whom Ulrich advises and accompanies to Pelagia.
- Garrik: Prince of Blackcrag whom Ulrich tutors in governance, history, and philosophy.
- Astrid: Fellow council member who also teaches Garrik.
- Bastian: Fellow council member and advisor in the Pelagia negotiations.
- Eremion: Ancient guardian whose return Ulrich questions and whose later policies he challenges.