CHARACTER
Kingdom of Ashby Sarah J. Maas

Asterin Blackbeak

Asterin Blackbeak

Asterin Blackbeak is the fiercely loyal Second-in-Command of the Thirteen, serving directly under her cousin, Manon Blackbeak. She first appears in Heir of Fire, and her role expands in Kingdom of Ash as she navigates the witches' break from the Ironteeth Matrons. Asterin embodies the themes of Found Family and Loyalty and Sacrifice and Selflessness. Her key relationships are with Manon, the Thirteen, and Dorian Havilliard.

Who She Is

Asterin is the pragmatic heart of the Thirteen, a fierce warrior whose loyalty to Manon is absolute. Haunted by a tragic past, she tempers her Ironteeth ruthlessness with a deep-seated desire for a better future for her coven. She is a vital strategist, a fierce protector, and ultimately, a martyr whose sacrifice paves the way for a new era for the witches.

Personality & Traits

Asterin is a complex character, blending the cold pragmatism of an Ironteeth witch with a fierce loyalty and a hidden capacity for love. While she presents a tough exterior, her past traumas fuel her desire for a better world, making her more than just a ruthless warrior.

  • Fiercely Loyal: Asterin's devotion to Manon is her defining trait. She follows Manon without question, even when it means defying their grandmother or seeking out the Crochans. Her ultimate sacrifice is the final testament to this loyalty.
  • Protective: She acts as both a physical and emotional shield for Manon and the Thirteen. Asterin is often the first to react to perceived threats, defending her coven with unwavering ferocity.
  • Brave and Fierce: As Manon's Second, Asterin is a formidable warrior, skilled in both aerial and ground combat. She faces enemies with brutal efficiency, honed over a century of battle.
  • Witty and Sarcastic: Despite the grim circumstances, Asterin possesses a sharp, often dark, sense of humor. She frequently teases Dorian Havilliard, providing moments of levity amidst the chaos.
  • Haunted by the Past: The loss of her stillborn witchling and human lover fuels her desire for a better world. This pain informs her profound capacity for love and sacrifice, culminating in her selfless act.

Character Journey

Asterin's journey in Kingdom of Ash is one of profound sacrifice and the ultimate fulfillment of her loyalty. Having already chosen to follow Manon, her development in this final installment solidifies that choice and helps forge a new future for her people. She fully embraces Manon's vision, acting as a crucial sounding board and source of strength as Manon grapples with her new identity as the Crochan Queen. Her most significant development occurs during the Siege of Orynth when she makes the conscious decision to sacrifice herself, leading the Thirteen in a final, suicidal charge to destroy the witch tower, knowing it will save Manon, the city, and the remnants of their allied army. In her final moments, she makes the Yielding, unleashing a blast of pure light, not darkness, symbolizing her complete transformation from a creature of hate to a beacon of hope.

Key Relationships

Manon Blackbeak: Asterin's relationship with Manon is the emotional core of the witch storyline. As cousins and seconds-in-command, their bond is forged in shared hardship and unwavering loyalty. Asterin offers Manon unconditional support, acting as her conscience and confidante, and her love for Manon drives her actions, most notably her sacrifice to ensure Manon's survival and ascension as Queen of Witches.

The Thirteen: The Thirteen are Asterin's true family, a coven of witches bound together by shared experiences and mutual respect. She is a respected leader among them and fiercely protective of her sisters-in-arms. The decision for the entire coven to sacrifice themselves together is a testament to the unbreakable bond they share, highlighting the theme of Found Family and Loyalty.

Dorian Havilliard: Asterin develops a playful and teasing rapport with Dorian, often calling him "Your Majesty" with a wicked grin. While initially viewing him with suspicion, she comes to see him as a powerful and trustworthy ally to Manon, respecting his strength and his place at their side. This relationship adds levity to the story and showcases Asterin's ability to form connections outside of her coven.

Defining Moments

  • The Hunt for the Crochans: During their search in the White Fang Mountains, Asterin serves as Manon's primary strategist and moral support, helping her navigate the uncertainty of their quest and the challenges of leadership (Chapter 4). This moment highlights Asterin's strategic mind and her unwavering support for Manon, solidifying her role as Manon's most trusted advisor.
  • Rallying the Ironteeth Rebels: At the Ferian Gap, Asterin bares the "UNCLEAN" brand on her abdomen to the assembled Ironteeth, a powerful and vulnerable act to show them the truth of the Matrons' cruelty and help sway them to Manon's cause (Chapter 56). This act of defiance demonstrates Asterin's commitment to a better future for her people and her willingness to expose her own pain to inspire change.
  • The Sacrifice at Orynth: In the book's climax, Asterin leads the Thirteen in a final, devastating charge against a witch tower poised to destroy the city. She makes the Yielding, destroying the tower, her grandmother, and herself in a blast of pure light, saving countless lives and securing Manon's future as queen (Chapter 89). This ultimate sacrifice solidifies Asterin's transformation from a ruthless warrior into a symbol of hope and selflessness.

Essential Quotes

“We will follow you, Manon.”

This simple declaration encapsulates Asterin's unwavering loyalty to Manon. It's not just a statement of obedience, but a promise of unwavering support, highlighting the depth of their bond and Asterin's commitment to Manon's vision.

“She does not lie.”

Asterin's defense of Manon, revealing her "UNCLEAN" brand to the Ironteeth host, is a pivotal moment. It demonstrates her willingness to expose her own vulnerability to support Manon and sway the Ironteeth to their cause, showcasing her courage and conviction.

“Bring our people home, Manon.”

This final request to Manon before her sacrifice encapsulates Asterin's deepest desire: a safe and prosperous future for her people. It's a plea for Manon to lead the witches to a better world, highlighting Asterin's selflessness and her commitment to the well-being of her coven.

“Live, Manon.”

Asterin's last word, a command and a plea to her cousin, is a powerful expression of her love and sacrifice. It's a final act of devotion, urging Manon to survive and fulfill her destiny, solidifying Asterin's role as a martyr for her queen and her people.