Captain Helen Aldred was born and raised in the city of Brighton. From an early age, the sights and sounds of a place whose very essence pulsed with the life of the rivers, where merchants exchanged goods and travelers shared tales of adventure, captivated Helen.
The daughter of a respected city guard captain and a skilled herbalist, Helen’s upbringing was heavily influenced by her parents’ commitment to service and compassion. Her father often regaled her with stories of bravery and honor in his work protecting the city from external threats and internal strife. Her mother taught her the healing arts, imparting lessons about the delicate balance of nature and the importance of looking after the community.
Growing up in this dynamic environment, Helen possessed an unyielding spirit and an innate sense of justice from a young age. She spent her childhood exploring the riverbanks, imagining herself as a guardian of the realm—leading her friends in games of “patrollers and bandits” as they devised clever plans to protect their home from imagined dangers. Those early adventures ignited a passion within her to serve and protect.
At the manor’s gate, they shared a similar exchange with another guard, though this one called to one other, and soon they had an escort leading them inside the manor and straight to Captain Aldred, who stood in the great room with arms crossed, her gaze sweeping across a table heavy with maps. Chestnut eyes flicked toward the newcomers, then returned as quickly to her work. Not surprisingly, the biggest map was of Brighton. Others detailed the lands around the city, with one even encompassing the northern part of the earldom, which included distant Rockhaven. Captain Aldred leaned in closer to one area of the city map, leather armor creaking as one hand strayed to the hilt of a sword at her hip and the other ran a finger down a street on the map. Long hair matching the color of her eyes was tied into a partially undone braid. Brushing several stray strands from her face, she asked without looking up, “Who are you?”
- THE ALCHEMIST’S FORGE
When she came of age, Helen was determined to follow in her father’s footsteps and joined the ranks of the Brighton City Guard. She excelled in her training, mastering combat techniques and navigation along the city’s winding waterways. Her sword prowess and ability to take hold of a situation, no matter how daunting, soon garnered her respect among her peers. Helen’s quick thinking and strategic mind made her a valuable asset in maintaining peace within the bustling trade city.
Despite the challenges she faced along the way—particularly in a male-dominated field—Helen’s resolve never wavered. She learned to navigate the complexities of policing a city filled with political intrigue, rival factions, and occasional threats from unruly elements like the multiple crime bosses who operate enterprises within the city’s border.
While her career flourished, her family life continued to thrive as well. Helen married David Aldred, a talented craftsman known for building exquisite boats that glided effortlessly along the rivers. Together, they welcomed three spirited children who buzzed with energy and curiosity. Helen prioritized attending every significant milestone, imparting her values of bravery, compassion, and community engagement to her children.
Rising to the rank of captain, Helen embraced her responsibilities with fierce determination. She led her officers in safeguarding Brighton, addressing threats ranging from crime sprees to the occasional flood that tested the city’s spirit. Renowned for her tough-as-nails demeanor, Helen balanced her commanding presence with genuine empathy for the citizens under her protection.
Helen understands her role extends beyond combat. She actively fosters relationships with local merchants, guilds, and riverine communities, ensuring everyone feels a sense of partnership in maintaining the city’s safety. She started community programs encouraging cooperation between the guards and residents, establishing neighborhood watch groups and educational workshops about river safety.
Despite her demanding position, Helen’s heart remains anchored to her family. Each evening, after a long day of work, she returns home to the sounds of laughter and love. Her children idolize her, seeing her not just as the captain of the City Guard but as a mother who embodies resilience, wisdom, and unwavering devotion.
FIRST APPEARANCE
Helen first appears in The Alchemist's Forge (The Alchemancer Book Four).
