Character Psychology: Mark of The Celestial Prophecy, Study and Analysis

If you haven’t read Character Psychology: Gaming of Genshin Impact, Study and Analysis yet, I highly recommend checking it out before diving into this one!

Today, we’re focusing on Mark Christiansen, the main love interest in The Celestial Prophecy series!

In the first part of the Character Psychology series, we talked about Gaming from Genshin Impact, noting striking similarities with Mark Christiansen. Let’s explore what makes him tick—and why he’s so relatable!

DISCLAIMER: Spoilers of The Celestial Prophecy series up ahead! Read at your own risk.

MARK CHRISTIANSEN, the boy who didn't want to be Emperor

• Born as the crown prince of Craestan, one of the most influential nations, Mark’s life was set on a path he didn’t choose. As next heir to the throne, he was expected to unite Craestan and Aerennor by marrying Luisa Delafontaine and ending an age-old feud. However, his fate seemed especially cruel—Mark’s mother died giving birth to him, leaving him to be raised solely by his father, Anton.

While his father promised Mark a future as emperor, Mark didn’t want the crown. “Papa, I don’t want to be emperor,” he said. “I just want to be like the boys I see outside! You know, to be free!”

Anton, torn between compassion for his son and duty to his people, insisted that Mark fulfill his destiny:

“Your mother, she loves you very much. It is a pain that you do not accept this gift of love from her. This kingdom is yours to rule and that you'll get to help so many people, just like you wanted.”

Eventually, Mark had no choice but to agree—provided his father would guide him along the way.

We battle Mark's internal conflict here: was he really considering becoming emperor? Or was he struggling in accepting his dad’s views and following his plan and mom’s? In the story, Mark decided to give it a try as long as he had guidance, and that his father, Anton, was on his side to assist him with his royal duties.

Note this: Have your characters decide on a choice, an impossible choice, and act upon it. Would they continue to stay in their comfort zone or risk everything to get what they want?

• The Fall of Craestan > Everything changed when Mark and his father discovered a conspiracy against them- to escape an assassination attempt orchestrated by the queen and her son Victor, they fled the palace. Mark’s dreams of becoming emperor were shattered when his father died of illness during their exile. Without family or allies, Mark was abandoned to an orphanage all by himself, where he endured years of bullying and hardship.

What makes Mark “tick”?

Mark’s relatability lies in the "simplicity of his conflict". Or in my terms, "The Simplicity of Conflict". Not every character needs a shocking plot twist to resonate with the readers.

Despite being forced into independence at a young age, Mark overcame his struggles, rebuilt his life, and pursued his dream of “ordinariness”. By adulthood, he had become a successful apothecary, making friendships and helping others without relying on his royal title. This alone, makes him a very relatable character.

What makes him so likeable?

Mark’s perseverance sets him apart. He transformed from a shy, timid orphan into an optimistic and selfless apothecary, dedicated to helping others. His decision to reject his father’s wishes—choosing his own path instead—makes him all the more relatable. His desire to stray away from being royalty but also being concerned by his parents make him such a green flag character.

Mark's First Appearance

• We are introduced by a very busy hardworking Mark Christiansen, who was happily tending to his apothecary business and helping those who need his assistance. Upon meeting the main character, Luisa, he instantly recognizes her from his past. This shows that Mark valued relationships and friendships more than anything, not just focusing on his business and thinking for himself. In the first few scenes, Mark revealed that he wanted to help everyone in the country, and wouldn't stop at anything to get what he wanted.

Parallels: Mark and Gaming:

Mark and Gaming share a common thread: their relentless drive to fulfill their dreams despite internal and external struggles. Both are shaped by their relationships with their mothers, whose legacies inspire them to persevere in the story.

Gaming pursues his dream of becoming a wushou dancer to honor his mother’s support and convince his dad of his dream.

Art by pota_juuu720

Mark seeks independence and purpose, drawing strength from his mother’s letters and her vision for a united Craestan.

Art by KrunchyKokky

The fact that these two characters have strong internal conflicts and a clear want makes the audience root for them more. We see them go through hardship to get what they want. It is through their love of family and the relationships around them that makes them memorable characters. We see them battle through their internal conflict and actively take action to get what they want while still avoiding their biggest fear: of being without guidance and support.

> Gaming runs away from home and pursues his destiny to convince his dad that wushou dancing is not a child's dream and it is indeed a serious job he has to face.

> While Mark was forced to be separated from his dad. He trained to become independent so that when he grew up, he would have nothing to worry about and could help the people even though he wasn't a prince or emperor.

> Gaming was mad at his father because he didn't support him in his dreams. While Mark was mad at his father because he didn't tell him he was struggling with a sickness ever since and didn't tell Mark, after promising he'd stay with him until he became emperor.

> As a child, Mark's outgoing, smart, and charming personality made Victor jealous of him. Gaming was also outgoing and talkative in his childhood and was deemed the “Demon King” of his village.

> Mark and Gaming love food. Mark uses his cooking skills to make Luisa his homemade pancakes and make her happy when she's down. While Gaming uses his love for food to treat his friends to dim sum, while also keeping his favorite snacks with him all the time to give away.

To wrap up, we need to know the number one rule in writing stories: Let. Your. Character. Have. Feelings! Have them think and make active decisions, just like a human with flaws carrying embarrassing mistakes. Make them have a reason for doing the things they do, and I guarantee that readers will stay up all night just to finish the book. Let your characters have genuine relationships and be a green flag, for once. We need more green flag men just like Gaming and Mark.

And that sums it up for today's part 2 of my Character Psychology blog about Gaming and Mark Christiansen! If you have any questions or suggestions for future posts, feel free to comment below. I'd love to hear your thoughts!

Don’t forget to check out The Celestial Prophecy and stay tuned for my newest fanfiction about Gaming, “Project U.G.A” coming soon this year!