Every great story needs a spark of levity, and in The Mereland Chronicles: The Crier, that spark is Brother Michael, a monk whose presence is as inescapable as it is endearing. Though his appearances are few, Brother Michael leaves a lasting impression. Chubby, bumbling, and almost comically enthusiastic in his admiration for Henry, he offers more than just light-hearted relief. He is Henry’s most fervent supporter, perhaps too fervent at times.
Despite his clumsy nature and tendency to shadow Henry like an overexcited puppy, Brother Michael possesses peculiar talents of his own.
As the Abbey’s unofficial exorcist, a role the hierarchy would prefer to keep buried, he takes his duty to protect the monastery, the people of Furness, and especially Henry, with unwavering seriousness.
He also claims to experience visions of the future, though Henry often wonders that Brother Michael’s prophecies are so vague they could apply to just about anything.
Yet, beneath his well-meaning blunders lies a deeper intuition. Brother Michael harbours a persistent suspicion that a malevolent force is stirring in the land. He senses a darkness looming over the people. But his insights never quite sharpen enough to reveal the real danger. His warnings, broad and frustratingly cryptic, are easily dismissed by those around him.
Character Profile: Brother Michael
- Age: 34
- Height: 5’5″ (165 cm)
- Build: Rotund, heavyset with broad shoulders and a prominent belly
- Hair: Wispy tufts of thinning, light brown hair
- Eyes: Brown
- Distinctive Features: None known
- Place of Birth: South Furness
- Personality: Bumbling and overly enthusiastic, yet deeply loyal and well-meaning, with an unshakable belief in his peculiar duties and instincts
- Intelligence: Below average
- Favourite Thing: Doing tasks that make him feel important and valuable to his community
- Dislikes: Shellfish
- Secrets: Frequently steals honey-buns from the Abbey kitchens
Annoying, clumsy, yet overwhelmingly compassionate, Brother Michael straddles the line between burden and blessing. But as the novel reaches its climax, he faces a grim task, one that unknowingly forces him to exorcise something he once cherished.
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Paul J. Scribbans — Author 