Rurik Balderk
Dec 11, 2015 12:03:38 GMT
Post by imtux on Dec 11, 2015 12:03:38 GMT
Rurik Balderk
Race
Gold Dwarf
Age
47
Height
4'1"
Weight
85kg
Deity
Moradin
Likes
Most alcohol, Gold/Riches, Fighting, Compliments, Respect, Bravery, Physical strength, Gifts, Axes.
Dislikes
Secrecy, Hiding, Complaints, Cowards.
Fears
The ocean, Losing Companions, Failing.
Likes
Most alcohol, Gold/Riches, Fighting, Compliments, Respect, Bravery, Physical strength, Gifts, Axes.
Dislikes
Secrecy, Hiding, Complaints, Cowards.
Fears
The ocean, Losing Companions, Failing.
Physical Description
The stout and young dwarf stands sturdy and proud, his burly chest often flexed forward in a semi-macho display of muscle, which seems to be core to his being. Through the tangle of his thick, black beard, Rurik's hardened face show signs of past battles; his expression often twisted into a grimace, or if the conditions are met, a dry, shallow smile. He speaks lowly and with minimal movements of his mouth, which can prove to be a communication boundary.
Personality
Rurik's rough and blunt perspective isn't unusual for a Dwarf. He isn't afraid to speak his mind, and as a result can unintentionally insult others. An utterly simple Dwarf, he also has a somewhat calculating and strategic mind.
Despite his often perceived hostility, Rurik makes a great and loyal companion once another has gained his trust, which is established through valiant acts and matching his personality, though not necessarily mimicking.
Rurik has a somewhat open mind in comparison to his brethren. He finds it far easier to tolerate other races, though is still cautious around some. Like his kin, he is territorial and protective of his companions, whom once has earned his highest respect, he will call a brother.
Traits
When Rurik falls into a silence, he is often deep in thought and can sometimes unintentionally ignore others.
When annoyed, the corner of Rurik's mouth twitches upward. It is subtle and can be misread as an almost-smile.
When first meeting a new person, Rurik will maintain eye contact for as long as possible. He does this to see if they break eye contact and if so, how long it takes them along with any other factors. His initial impression of the person is based on this.
Rurik will sometimes walk oddly when in company. Though it can be discreet, he tries not to show his back to those he doesn't quite trust. The more of a vulnerable state he voluntarily puts himself in, the more he trusts the person.
History
Rurik was born into a lower-class family in the city of Thullurn. He and many family friends were religious, some fanatically so. Tradition was the utmost in the Balderk family, as often was for followers of Moradin. His father often ventured out in the Underdark to fight abberations, which Rurik followed suit when deemed old enough to carry an axe. He was quite young.
When Rurik was age thirty, he and a close friend, Mordren, ventured to Faerun. Rurik wanted to pursue a life as a paladin, and Mordren, a devout cleric, was glad to accompany him. They spent over a decade in Faerun, travelling from destination to destination. When Rurik was experienced enough, he swore an Oath of Devotion; "Never fear to act, though caution is wise".
The two built a reputation for themselves, known as the Dwarf brothers. Many had assumed they were siblings. They never bothered to make corrections. The life of a paladin was difficult for Rurik, mainly due to the need to prioritise his devotion over his clan and riches. Although he learned to realign his values, Rurik could never lose his love for gold and spoils.
Whenever there were escapades overseas, Rurik was always hesitant. He had a great fear of open waters though could never admit it. Urged by Mordren, who knew of Rurik's fears, the two eventually left on their first journey by ship. Rurik eventuated that he may find riches in the destination, which was enough encouragement for the greedy Dwarf.
Whenever there were escapades overseas, Rurik was always hesitant. He had a great fear of open waters though could never admit it. Urged by Mordren, who knew of Rurik's fears, the two eventually left on their first journey by ship. Rurik eventuated that he may find riches in the destination, which was enough encouragement for the greedy Dwarf.
The journey wasn't without fault. Rurik found himself to be especially seasick, which strengthened his hate of open water. On arrival, the two were thoroughly let down. They had built an expectation of meeting other adventurers, and had hopes to form a group. Instead found very little but undead and empty streets.
The two travelled in the city together for some time before eventually boarding themselves into an abandoned house. They made this their temporary base where they could have held out against any attacks for years. Regrettably, the Dwarfs had very real appetites, which required them to endeavour into the city for supplies. They were never the quiet types. Mordren fell to a large horde of undead. Rurik barely escaped. He found himself eventually stumbling onto the steps of an old house.
