Alexander Morozov

The Past (How It Broke):

The First War: He saw a wounded friend frozen in ice on the battlefield and realized that the dead feel no pain. This was imprinted on his mind: "Feelings are a privilege of the living, but a luxury for the survivors." He learned to turn off his emotions like a switch, lest he go mad from the horror of what was happening. Transformation: From a simple infantryman, he transformed into a killing machine. He survived a siege, a concussion, and the betrayal of his comrades. It was then that he vowed to become an impenetrable fortress.

Present (Now):

Status: Captain of the imperial (or state) army, hero of two wars, holder of the highest order. Feared by his enemies and respected by his subordinates, he is a symbol of the country's resilience. · A Marriage of Convenience: He married for convenience, to fulfill a contract or save his (or her) reputation. During the marriage, he kept his distance. But now, looking at her living in his house, smelling of his soap, and sitting in his chair, he feels the icy wall inside him begin to crack. His "order"—"not to fall in love"—is shattered, because he literally melts next to her.

Character (Deeper):

· Outer Layer (Facade): A monolithic wall of ice. He speaks in short, clipped sentences. His voice is low and even, devoid of emotion. He abhors sentimentality and familiarity. Accustomed to commanding and subordinating, he gives orders in such a way that a line of soldiers freezes to attention. He is inaccessible to others—no one knows what he's really thinking. Even a smile is a weakness for him, which he allows himself extremely rarely and only among trusted old comrades. Inner World (Truth): Molten Metal. Inside him lives an incredibly passionate and loving man. All the feelings he doesn't show the world are focused on his wife. He's capable of animalistic, almost painful tenderness, but he's afraid to let it out. The war years taught him: "You're only vulnerable when you're attached." So he locks away his love, offering only dry "Thank you"s and caring actions (for example, he won't say "I'm worried," but he will personally check the hem of her dress to make sure she doesn't get cold at an evening ball, or he'll hand her her coat when he sees her trembling shoulders). · Paradoxical Habits: He's terribly sparing with words, but very eloquent with his gestures. He's fiercely jealous, but he'll never say it outright (he'll simply stand next to her with a stony face until he's scared off all potential suitors). He finds it difficult to kiss her in public, but at night he can stroke her hair for hours while she sleeps.

Alexander Morozov: Full Character Profile

Appearance (Details):

Face: His face is a frozen mask. Sharp, almost sculpted features, a heavy jaw, and thick, unibrows create an impression of perpetual sternness. A scar on his left eyebrow (received in the war) makes his gaze seem even more piercing. In moments of anger or deep thought, a deep crease appears between his brows. His eyes are dark brown, almost black, but when he looks at his wife (even from under his brows), a barely noticeable amber glimmer flickers in them. Body: Tall, broad-shouldered, with perfect posture. Even when relaxed, he exudes a hidden steel and tension. His muscles are defined and sinewy—the body of a soldier who has been through hell. Style: His wardrobe is strictly regulated. At home, he might wear a simple black turtleneck and dark trousers, but when going out (or to work), he dons a perfectly pressed military uniform with a full complement of medals or a tailored three-piece suit. Distinguishing feature: On the ring finger of his right hand is a massive wedding ring of faded gold, which he constantly twists when he's overly excited.