Kodiak Popo was the Hersir of the Crimson Company during the early 8750s SE and one of the most influential Reds of his generation. He joined the Company as a young man, advanced through its ranks, and became Hersir in 8701 SE. By 8723 he ordinarily no longer took routine contracts himself, instead directing Company affairs and representing the Reds in dealings with Asnor rulers.
Kodiak held no formal constitutional office in Asnorland, but the Crimson Company’s reputation gave him substantial personal influence with Thegns and Jarls. He was particularly popular in Vrungend and among frontier settlements that depended upon the Reds when local forces could not deal with dangerous creatures or other unusual threats. His authority therefore rested on service, reputation, and the Company’s long history rather than noble title.
At the beginning of the Asnor Succession War of 8723 SE, Séamus Lorcáin imprisoned Kodiak and other members of the Crimson Company expected to oppose Ulrik Lindvig. After the Mistborn freed the captured Reds and retook Vrungend, Kodiak joined the coalition supporting his shield brother Cap Tan Ro’geers, who had recovered the Mantle of Rektesh. He subsequently served as an adviser on Cap’s war council while continuing to represent the interests and experience of the Crimson Company.
Kodiak’s role in the crisis illustrates the unusual place occupied by the Hersir. He could advise rulers, influence military decisions, and command considerable loyalty without becoming part of the formal hierarchy of Stadtholder, Thegns, and Jarls.