The son of Queen Selenay of Valdemar and Prince Darenthallis of Rethwellan, Kris is the younger half-brother of Herald-Mage Elspeth. He is slightly older than his twin sister Lyra, which puts him next in line for the throne of Valdemar since Elspeth abdicated her position as Heir. Of course, this is contingent on his being Chosen, but no one has any concerns that he will be when he's old enough.