CHARACTER
Heir of Fireby Sarah J. Maas

Murtaugh Allsbrook

Murtaugh Allsbrook

Quick Facts

Murtaugh Allsbrook is the former lord of Terrasen and grandfather to Ren Allsbrook. A survivor of Terrasen's slaughter, he's a key figure in the Rifthold rebellion. Murtaugh first appears in Heir of Fire.

Who He Is

Murtaugh is the embodiment of Terrasen's lost nobility: a keeper of memories, a voice of wisdom, and a symbol of enduring hope. He provides a crucial link to the past, offering strategic guidance and a steadying influence to the younger, more impulsive members of the rebellion, such as his grandson and Aedion Ashryver. He represents the resilience of a fallen kingdom, quietly nurturing the embers of rebellion until the rightful queen can return.

Personality & Traits

Murtaugh's personality is shaped by a decade of loss and survival, making him a pragmatic and cautious leader. He balances youthful fervor with seasoned wisdom, ensuring the rebellion remains grounded in strategy and reason.

  • Wise and Cautious: Years of hardship have made him wary of outsiders, as seen when he pointedly questions both Chaol Westfall and Aedion about their true motives. He understands the gravity of their situation and the need for careful planning.
  • Loyal: His unwavering devotion to Terrasen and its rightful queen, Aelin Galathynius, fuels his every action. He has dedicated his life to restoring their kingdom and seeing Aelin reclaim her throne.
  • Protective: He is fiercely protective of his grandson, Ren, often shielding him from danger and tempering his impulsiveness. During a tense confrontation, he physically places himself between Ren and Aedion, demonstrating his instinct to safeguard his last remaining family.
  • Strategic: Murtaugh serves as the intellectual backbone of the rebel group. He pieces together the theory about the king's spell and the three towers, showcasing the sharp, analytical mind crucial to the rebellion's long-term success.

Character Journey

Murtaugh's journey in Heir of Fire is one of transformation from a leader of a desperate, hidden rebellion to a foundational member of Aelin's burgeoning court. Initially, he operates in the shadows, spreading rumors to keep hope alive. The arrival of Aedion and Chaol prompts him to cautiously forge alliances, shifting from mere survival to active planning. The news of Aelin's survival in Wendlyn galvanizes him, turning his quiet hope into a tangible mission. He embraces the role of messenger, understanding the importance of rallying Terrasen's scattered people, proving himself an invaluable and proactive leader.

Key Relationships

Ren Allsbrook: As his grandfather, Murtaugh is Ren's mentor, guardian, and closest confidant. He tempers Ren's youthful anger with wisdom and experience, guiding him through the treacherous world of rebellion. Their bond is a poignant representation of the generational trauma and resilience of Terrasen's survivors.

Aedion Ashryver: Murtaugh is initially deeply suspicious of Aedion, viewing him as "Adarlan's Whore." Once Aedion's true allegiance is revealed, Murtaugh becomes a respected advisor, unafraid to challenge the general's fervor with pragmatic counsel. He reminds Aedion that loyalty must be earned, establishing himself as a voice of reason in the new court.

Chaol Westfall: Murtaugh's relationship with Chaol mirrors his initial dynamic with Aedion. He is wary of the Captain of the Guard's intentions but is willing to listen when Chaol offers vital information. He eventually accepts Chaol as a necessary, if unlikely, ally in their fight against the King of Adarlan.

Defining Moments

  • Confronting Aedion and Chaol: In their first meeting, Murtaugh immediately takes control, demanding to know Chaol's purpose. This scene establishes his authority and cautious nature, as he is unwilling to trust anyone associated with the Adarlanian court.
  • Revealing the Theory of the Three Towers: Murtaugh explains his research into the disappearance of magic, detailing the three towers and the triangular spell he believes the king used. This moment is a major turning point in the plot, providing the heroes with their first real clue on how to fight back against the king's ultimate power.
  • Spreading the News of Aelin's Return: Upon hearing that Aelin is alive and has defeated General Narrok in Wendlyn, Murtaugh's reaction is one of profound, vindicated joy. He immediately understands the political significance and rides out to spread the word across the continent, igniting the flames of rebellion.

Essential Quotes

"Did the king send you?"

This question, posed to Chaol upon their first meeting, encapsulates Murtaugh's inherent distrust of anyone associated with the Adarlanian court. It highlights his protective nature and his commitment to safeguarding the rebellion from infiltration.

"Loyalty is earned, not given. You'll want levelheaded people who won't hesitate to ask the hard questions."

This statement, directed at Aedion, reveals Murtaugh's pragmatic approach to leadership and alliance-building. He emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and earned trust, qualities he believes are essential for the rebellion's success.

"She’s alive. She’s—she’s truly alive."

This simple yet powerful exclamation captures the profound impact of Aelin's survival on Murtaugh. It reflects the rekindling of hope and the vindication of his years of unwavering belief in Terrasen's future.

"Before the king tries to keep the news from spreading, I need to let Terrasen know."

This declaration demonstrates Murtaugh's immediate understanding of the political implications of Aelin's return. He recognizes the importance of spreading the news quickly to rally support and ignite the flames of rebellion across Terrasen.