Prince Fedrik Character Analysis: The Sunshine Prince of Citrine

Overview

Prince Fedrik of Citrine is a secondary character in A Promise of Peridot who initially appears as a handsome, easygoing prince but gradually reveals deeper layers of loyalty, wisdom, and self-awareness. As the son of King Broderick and Queen Isolde, Fedrik uses his charm and adventurous spirit to navigate a kingdom caught between isolation and the coming war. He joins the expedition to evaluate Kane Ravenwood and becomes a temporary love interest for Arwen, yet ultimately respects her choices—even when they break his heart.

Plot Role

Fedrik first appears in Chapter 5 when Arwen’s group arrives at Citrine. He casually reveals the existence of the Fae, shocking Arwen, and makes clear his disapproval of Kane’s past betrothal to his sister Sera. Later, he insists on joining the quest for the Blade of the Sun (Chapter 15), explaining that he wants to assess Kane’s character and persuade his parents to lend Citrine’s army. Throughout the journey, Fedrik acts as a calm, supportive presence, offering Arwen an alternate life beyond the prophecy. His role culminates when he offers her a safe haven in Azurine—an offer she declines because she loves Kane. Fedrik accepts this gracefully, remaining a friend.

Motivations and Traits

Fedrik’s primary motivation is protecting his family and kingdom. He loves his sister Sera and resents how Kane’s abandonment humiliated her. His decision to join the quest stems from a desire to see Kane’s true nature for himself—he tells Arwen, “I want Citrine to fight for the side of good,” implying he’d rather act on firsthand knowledge than royal prejudice. He is also driven by a genuine love for adventure and a wish to help Arwen find joy outside her fate.

Traits shown through actions:

Warmth and humor: When first meeting Arwen, he gives a “warm, genuine smile” and treats her with ease, contrasting with the hostile royals. He jokes about Kane, calling him a “raging Fae asshole.”
Bravery and loyalty: He enters Reaper’s Cavern without hesitation, and later asks Kane to keep his injury secret so Arwen can rest (Chapter 25).
Emotional intelligence: He correctly perceives Arwen’s grief and numbness, telling her, “You’ve accepted your fate too flippantly” and offering her a path to “live” rather than merely survive.
Respect for autonomy: After kissing Arwen, he does not pressure her. When she confesses she loves Kane, Fedrik says, “Kane will never be what you deserve,” but does not force his own affections.

Chronological Arc

Introduction (Chapter 5): Fedrik appears at the Citrine palace, revealing the Fae realm’s existence. He dismisses Kane as a suitable match for his sister.
Café encounter (Chapters 9–10): Fedrik supports Arwen when she defies Kane at the gambling den, offering her a seat at the table.
Journey to Peridot (Chapters 15–17): Fedrik joins the quest. He gathers firewood with Arwen, shares his backstory about Sera, and admits he wants to evaluate Kane. He plays the lute, adding warmth to the camp.
Cave and injury (Chapter 25): Fedrik is severely injured; Arwen heals him. He tells her Kane loves her, then misinterprets her silence and kisses her.
After the kiss (Chapters 27, 39): Arwen confesses she still loves Kane. Fedrik offers her a new life in Azurine—she declines. He returns to Citrine with Eryx.
Final appearance (Chapter 42): Fedrik is sent to Citrine by Kane, tasked with conveying news. He accepts his role without conflict.

Relationships

Arwen: Fedrik develops romantic feelings for Arwen, drawn to her resilience and kindness. He respects her autonomy even when she chooses Kane. Their friendship endures; he becomes a sounding board for her fears. Kane: Fedrik dislikes Kane for his past treatment of Sera and his ruthless methods. Yet he acknowledges Kane’s genuine desire to stop Lazarus. Their rivalry is largely one-sided: Kane is jealous, Fedrik stays calm. Sera: Fedrik is fiercely protective of his younger sister, calling her “the most important person in the world to me.” Mari and Griffin: Fedrik interacts politely with them, mostly through Mari’s talkative nature. He does not form deep bonds with the group outside Arwen.

Key Decisions and Consequences

Joining the quest (Chapter 15): Fedrik insists on accompanying the party. This decision allows him to witness Kane’s character firsthand and later report to his parents, though it also deepens his attachment to Arwen.
Keeping his injury secret (Chapter 25): He asks Kane not to tell Arwen, wanting her to rest. This moment shows his selflessness and reinforces Arwen’s trust in him.
Offering Arwen a new life (Chapter 27): He invites her to Azurine, no expectations. This forces Arwen to confront her feelings for Kane. Fedrik’s offer highlights the theme of love vs. revenge by presenting a peaceful alternative.
Respecting Arwen’s choice (Chapter 39): When she refuses his offer, Fedrik does not fight or resent her. He returns to Citrine, preserving their friendship and his dignity.

Theme and Symbol Connections

Prophecy and Fate: Fedrik represents the possibility of rejecting destiny. He tells Arwen she can “enjoy whatever time you have left” away from the quest, directly opposing the prophecy’s inevitability.
Grief and Emotional Numbness: Fedrik recognizes Arwen’s emotional withdrawal and tries to help her “live” again. He is a catalyst for her healing.
Love vs. Revenge: His offer of a peaceful life contrasts with Kane’s revenge-driven path. Fedrik embodies love without vengeance.
Trust and Betrayal: Fedrik trusts Arwen enough to reveal his insecurities, and he never betrays her confidence—even when she confesses her love for Kane.
Vulnerability and Healing: He is unafraid to be vulnerable (admitting fear of his parents, his feelings for Arwen). His emotional openness helps Arwen confront her own guardedness.

In the broader story, Fedrik functions as a “sunshine” symbol—his bright, carefree demeanor contrasts the darkness of war and Kane’s grimness. He is a reminder that life can still be enjoyed, even in the shadow of fate.

Questions and Answers

Why does Prince Fedrik join the expedition to find the Blade of the Sun?
Fedrik tells Arwen in Chapter 16 that he joined “to evaluate Kane” and to persuade his parents to lend Citrine’s army. He wants to see Kane’s character for himself before committing to an alliance.
Does Fedrik truly love Arwen, or is he using her to get back at Kane?
Explicit text shows Fedrik develops genuine affection. He offers her a life away from the quest with “no expectations” and later accepts her rejection without resentment. His actions align with selfless care rather than revenge.
Why does Fedrik kiss Arwen in Chapter 25?
After Arwen heals his leg with her lighte—keeping her Fae identity secret—Fedrik misinterprets her silence. He believes she might want him. The kiss is a moment of miscommunication; he hopes for a real chance, but she later clarifies she still loves Kane.
What is Fedrik’s relationship with his sister Sera, and how does it affect his view of Kane?
Fedrik says he and Sera are “very close” and that he “didn’t particularly like the idea of my baby sister marrying a raging Fae asshole.” Kane’s broken betrothal humiliated Sera, fueling Fedrik’s distrust.
Why does Fedrik ultimately step aside for Kane?
Fedrik respects Arwen’s autonomy. In Chapter 39, after she admits she’s in love with Kane, Fedrik says, “I’m not trying to sweep you off your feet… I just want you to have a life outside of all this madness.” He places her happiness above his own desire.