Auston

Auston is Nate’s younger sister — four years younger, and about ten years braver than her older brother. While he is all forward motion and big dreams, Auston is curious, fearless, and quietly the sharpest pattern-spotter in the family.

Traits

• Bright and careful
• Fearless in a way that worries others, but she knows what she is doing
• Took one look at the board and never looked back — the fastest study in the family
• Adores her big brother, and thus isn’t shy about telling him when he’s wrong

Background

With their father kind but scattered and often away with the work crew, it was Nate who quietly stepped up. Braiding hair, packing lunches, and being a listening ear when she needed one. Auston doesn’t like to admit that she looks up to her older brother, but they both know how much they love each other, deep down.

She believes in him completely, and is willing to give her energy to the cause when she can.

Role in the Story

The sibling companion who adds emotional depth to Nate while also providing a chance to share her journey. Chess City stops being only about Nate’s ambition the moment you understand he is also doing it for her — to build a life big enough for a little sister who may need a little push to reach for the stars.

At the Academy she runs Bootcamp — the first hall, where every recruit learns how the pieces move. She’ll be the first to tell you she isn’t the strongest player in Checker Town; she’s just the one who never left the board, and there’s nobody better to start with.