The Rosenvalles are Rudi’s parents only by blood and both powerful magic users. The old count and countess of Rosenvalle were losing political power and resorted to making a deal with a demon. As a part of the deal, they offered up the soul of their child, but before they could sacrifice Rudi, she was whisked away by Ostoroth, the court wizard. Rowan was killed during the siege of Rosenvalle, but the countess escaped and was able to retrieve her husband’s body afterward.