Helene Du Sarn
Helene is a vibrant, complex figure in the world of Amber, embodying both scandal and charisma in equal measure. Here’s a polished summary of her character:
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Poets of Amber, steeped in the traditions of Earth’s Homer, claim Helene to be "the Helen who launched a million ships across a thousand shadows." With her captivating beauty and undeniable charm, she stands as Amber’s ultimate symbol of allure, the embodiment of the term “arm candy.” Rumor has it she wears that very phrase tattooed somewhere on her body—a tantalizing mystery that has led to many a curious search.
Born the daughter of a Lan Du Sarn, owner of the famous Heeled Hound Inns, Helene’s rise to prominence began humbly as a tavern maid. Known for her flirtatious nature, she became notorious for the "tumbles" of her youth, a period rife with both youthful indiscretion and harrowing experiences. Her father’s sudden wealth and respectability opened doors to Amber’s courts, but Helene’s reputation as a walking scandal endured.
Despite her notoriety, Helene’s universal likability remains her saving grace. Her wit is as sharp as her beauty is radiant, and her unrelenting humor and sincerity disarm even the most judgmental critics. To call her promiscuous would be an understatement—Helene lives life on her own terms, indulging her desires with a refreshing lack of apology. She has, however, set boundaries for herself, notably avoiding rough trade or heavy kink and reserving group encounters exclusively for women. Yet, her resolve is her own; when she says *no*, it is absolute, though she may change her mind at a whim another day.
Created a Lady of the Court under King Eric. Created a Court Baroness by King Random.
Helene’s past carries its share of shadows. Raped three times in her tavern-maid days, she exacted brutal revenge on two of her assailants and continues to seek the third. Though the stories of her vengeance are as varied as the tellers, she neither confirms nor denies the truth. Beneath her bright exterior lies an unflinching core of resilience, forged by pain and tempered by her own sense of justice.
Helene’s romantic escapades are the stuff of court gossip. She’s been involved with several prominent figures, including Prince Bleys, Prince Caine, Prince Gerard, and Princess Flora—all of whom openly admit to their dalliances with her. One particularly scandalous incident saw her and Bleys caught in Brand’s Tomb, though the specifics remain a source of endless speculation.
Gerard is rumored to carry a deeper affection for her, often seen defending her honor. They have an openly acknowledged companionship beyond the casual but she keeps refusing his ring. Helene prefers to fight her own battles, wielding both sword and bow with competence. Still, her most formidable weapon is her razor-sharp tongue, capable of cutting through the most layered intrigue.
Beyond her infamy, Helene is a celebrated talent. Her voice, described as one of the finest in shadow, makes her a frequent star in Amber’s opera houses, particularly in the Theater District—a connection likely fostered through Prince Bleys. She’s also a skilled secretary, currently served Prince Bleys in Chaos, where her sharp mind and even sharper humor have proven invaluable.
Helene is a paradox—a scandalous icon beloved for her authenticity, a relentless flirt with an unyielding sense of personal agency, and a survivor who wears her scars with pride. Whether as a singer, a secretary, or simply Amber’s most captivating enigma, she remains a force to be reckoned with. For all her infamous deeds, Helene embodies a spirit of resilience and unapologetic vitality that Amber, and those who dwell within it, cannot help but admire.
Poets of Amber who are familiar with Homer say this is the Helen that launched a million ships on a thousand shadows of earth. She is Amber's ultimate Arm Candy. Rumor has it that she actually has the term "Arm Candy" tattooed on her someplace and people have been known to look for it. She is a member of the 'Urien Pack.' She is the daughter of a Lan Du Sarn, owner of the massive chain of taverns called The Heeled Hound Inns. Helene got started as a tavern maid and took many a tumble there before her father suddenly became rich, respectable, and welcomed at court.
Helene is a walking scandal saved only by the fact that she is so universally friendly and sincerely funny, that people can't help liking her despite her outrageous behavior. To call her promiscuous does not quite cover her. She will willingly and eagerly couple with anyone who catches her slightest fancy. She has been caught in the act in a wide number of places around the castle and city of Amber. While promiscuous she does have her boundaries, which she admits she crosses occasionally. Amongst these is that she only engages in group sex with women and does not generally enjoy rough trade or heavy kink.
Despite her reputation once she says NO there is no way to sway her. Of course she might change her mind another day.
- She has been raped a three times in her tavern youth. She hunted and killed two of the assailants and is still seeking the third. The stories of her revenge vary widely and she confirms nothing and denys nothing.
- She was once caught with Bleys in Brand's Tomb. She is known to have been sexually involved with Bleys, Caine, Gerard, and Flora, and the rumors fly fast. These four admit their dalliances with her.
- Droppa dotes on her incessantly.
- Gerard is rumored to love her and carries her favor. He has defended her honor on numerous occasions but Helene prefers to defend herself. She is a competent swordsman and an excellent archer. But her most dangerous weapon is her sharp wit.
- She is also one of the best singers in shadow, frequently featured in operas in the Theater District, hence her connection with Bleys. She frequently serves as secretary for the nobles and is currently serving as Bleys' secretary in Chaos.