The Challenge of Writing Sibling Relationships in Fantasy

In fantasy literature, we often encounter chosen ones, dark lords, and magical creatures.

But amidst the epic battles and world-altering prophecies, there’s a relationship dynamic that can be just as complex and compelling.

Siblings.

The Unique Bond of Blood

Sibling relationships offer a wealth of storytelling opportunities.

They’re a blend of shared history, rivalry, and unconditional love—often all at once.

In fantasy, where characters frequently face life-or-death situations, these bonds can be pushed to their limits.

Take Ragnar and Maja Wolfsbane from my Ravenglass Legends series.

Their relationship is tested by the conquest of their homeland, forced separation, and the divergent paths they must follow.

It’s not your typical family disagreement over who ate the last biscuit—unless that biscuit was enchanted and vital to saving the kingdom, of course.

Conflict and Loyalty: A Delicate Balance

One of the primary challenges in writing sibling relationships is balancing conflict with loyalty.

Siblings may quarrel, compete, and even betray one another, but there’s often an underlying connection that can’t be severed.

In “The Fall of Wolfsbane”, Ragnar and Maja face external pressures that threaten to drive them apart.

Ragnar’s oath to Prince Gregor and Maja’s captivity under Princess Saranka create a chasm between them.

Yet, their shared heritage and memories of Meerand serve as a bridge, keeping their bond intact despite the distance.

The Shadow of Family Legacy

Family legacies often play a crucial role in epic fantasy.

Siblings must navigate these expectations together—or in opposition to one another.

The weight of a family name, an inherited magical ability, or a prophesied destiny can strain sibling relationships to breaking point.

Ragnar and Maja both carry the Wolfsbane legacy, but their circumstances force them to approach it differently.

Ragnar grapples with upholding his family’s honour while serving the empire that destroyed his clan.

Maja, on the other hand, becomes a symbol of resistance, using her captivity as a means to undermine the empire from within.

Different Paths, Shared Destiny

One of the most intriguing aspects of writing siblings in fantasy is exploring how characters with shared origins can take wildly different paths.

This divergence can create tension, misunderstanding, and conflict—all excellent ingredients for a compelling story.

In Ravenglass Legends, Ragnar and Maja’s separate journeys allow us to explore different facets of the world and the conflict.

Ragnar’s perspective gives us insight into the empire’s military and political machinations.

Maja’s story delves into the cultural clash and the subtle forms of resistance employed by the conquered.

The Power of Reconciliation

Despite the conflicts and separations, sibling relationships in fantasy often offer powerful moments of reconciliation.

These reunions can be some of the most emotionally charged scenes in a story, especially when siblings have been through individual trials and transformations.

While I won’t spoil the journey for Ragnar and Maja, rest assured that their relationship continues to evolve throughout the Ravenglass Legends series.

Their individual growth and shared experiences shape their bond in ways that even they couldn’t have predicted.

A Rich Vein for Storytelling

Writing sibling relationships in fantasy presents unique challenges.

But it also offers rich opportunities for character development, conflict, and emotional depth.

Whether your siblings are vying for the throne or just trying to survive in a world of magic and danger, their relationship can provide a grounding element of relatability in even the most fantastical settings.

So the next time you’re crafting a fantasy tale, consider the power of sibling bonds.

After all, who better to help you overthrow a dark lord than the person who’s known you since you were in nappies?

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What are your favourite sibling relationships in fantasy literature?

Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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