Maren
The ancient woman who knew Bram before the crown and damned him with an oath.
Maren is the sole keeper of Bram's true name, Emrin, having loved him long before his rise to power. Bound by a cruel bargain that halts her aging and death until the Deathless falls, she appears as a vibrant woman in her mid-thirties despite being over 120 years old. Her history with Bram is defined by deep affection turned into a damning oath, creating a complex dynamic where she recognizes him instantly yet chooses understanding over immediate violence.
- True Name Known By
- Maren only
- Apparent Age
- ~35
- Actual Age
- Over 120 years
- Fate Condition
- Bound until the Deathless is dead
- First Reunion
- Book 6
- Final Appearance
- Book 11 finale
Lore & Background
In Book 6, Maren encounters Bram and recognizes him immediately. Instead of striking him down or selling him out to his enemies, she chooses a path of protection. She rides north at the end of winter specifically to lay a false trail for Corvane, ensuring Bram's safety through deception rather than direct confrontation. Her actions demonstrate that while she holds the power to harm him, her loyalty remains tied to understanding his journey.
Did You Know?
- Maren is the only person in existence who knows Bram's true name, Emrin.
- She cannot age or die until the Deathless is killed.
- In Book 6, she refused to kill Bram despite recognizing him instantly.
- She returned for the series finale in Book 11.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Maren look young?
A bargain prevents her from aging or dying until the Deathless is dead, keeping her appearance around 35 despite being over 120 years old.
Does anyone else know Bram's real name?
No, Maren is the only person who knows his true name, Emrin.
What did Maren do in Book 6 when she found Bram?
She recognized him but stayed to understand rather than strike; she later rode north to lay a false trail for Corvane instead of selling him out.
Is Maren still alive at the end of the series?
Yes, she returns in Book 11 and is present for the finale.