Baxter Ross

Baxter Ross, a seasoned investigator with a keen sense of determination, has devoted a significant portion of his career to the challenging and often dangerous field of law enforcement. As a detective, he specializes in narcotics investigations, delving deep into the murky underworld of illegal drugs that plague Pneumanor's streets. His efforts have been particularly focused on combating the rampant manufacturing, trafficking, and distribution of Balsean, a perilous alchemical substance that has wreaked havoc on the city.
Throughout his tenure as an investigator, Baxter has encountered a myriad of cases, each more complex and enigmatic than the last. The Balsean operation, however, has proven to be a particularly elusive puzzle. Despite his relentless pursuit of justice, Baxter has faced a formidable challenge in his attempts to dismantle the tightly-knit network of criminals responsible for the drug's proliferation.
His investigation has led him to bust several small-time distributors and traffickers, a testament to his commitment and tenacity. However, the bigger players behind the scenes have managed to remain hidden, operating with a level of coordination and sophistication that suggests a well-orchestrated criminal syndicate at play. Baxter's frustration has grown as he uncovers layer upon layer of deception and corruption, realizing that he's dealing with an adversary far more cunning and formidable than he initially anticipated.
Undeterred by the obstacles before him, Baxter continues to work tirelessly, piecing together clues, connecting dots, and collaborating with colleagues in pursuit of the truth. His dedication has earned him respect among his peers and the trust of the community he serves. Despite the darkness he confronts daily, Baxter's commitment to upholding the law and safeguarding the city remains unshaken.
As Baxter Ross delves deeper into the intricate web of the Balsean operation, he stands on the precipice of a potentially career-defining breakthrough. With each step forward, he inches closer to exposing the masterminds behind the illicit enterprise and dismantling the criminal empire they've meticulously constructed. The pressure is on, and Baxter's unwavering determination will be put to the ultimate test as he strives to bring justice to Pneumanor and rid its streets of the dangerous scourge that threatens its very foundation.
== Backstory: ==
=== Early Life: ===
Baxter Ross's early life was one of connection and community, shaped by the close-knit bonds of his extended family and the Rougarou pack on the plains surrounding the city of Minus. Growing up in such an environment instilled in him a strong sense of camaraderie and the belief that the world was a place where friendly smiles and close friendships were abundant. 
The Rougarou, a nomadic group, had flirted with the idea of integrating into the city of Minus for some time. While some pack members worked within the city, others took on laborer jobs outside its walls, contributing to the well-being of their community. Baxter's mother played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between the Rougarou and the city's inhabitants. She joined the police force and eventually became a full member of the Constabulary, serving as a liaison to the Rougarou people and helping to protect the communities outside the city walls. His father, on the other hand, ran a bakery on the outskirts of Minus, providing sustenance and a sense of comfort to the community.
Baxter was one of many siblings, and his childhood was marked by a sense of wholesomeness and happiness. The Rougarou pack's tight-knit nature extended to his own family, creating an environment of love, support, and shared experiences. The plains surrounding Minus became his playground, filled with adventures and the comforting presence of family and friends.
The experiences of his early life in the Rougarou pack and the outskirts of Minus would go on to shape Baxter's worldview and values, fostering a deep appreciation for community, cooperation, and the importance of preserving the bonds that connect people. As he grew and embarked on his own journey, these foundational lessons would guide his path as he stepped into the role of an investigator, ready to protect and serve the greater Pneumanor community.
=== Young Adulthood: ===
As Baxter entered young adulthood, his physical size stood in contrast to his gentle and sensitive nature. He was an intellectual at heart, finding solace and joy in activities like poetry, mathematics, and music. His penchant for overthinking and documenting everything earned him the playful nickname "the paperboy," a nod to his constant note-taking. Despite the teasing, Baxter remained true to his interests, valuing the pursuit of knowledge and the creative outlets that allowed him to express himself.
The Rougarou pack's politics, centered around the decision of whether to integrate into Minus or remain independent, created tensions and arguments among the elders. Baxter, a sensitive soul who couldn't bear the emotional weight of such conflicts, chose to distance himself from those discussions. Instead, he focused on his own passions and the camaraderie of his close-knit group of friends.
Together, they embarked on small adventures in the wilds, occasionally venturing far from the pack's territory. Their dreams of becoming adventurers took them on a journey outside their comfort zone, but their efforts met with limited success. After a few months away, they returned to the pack, a few members short. The experience had taught Baxter the harsh realities of the world beyond their community's borders. However, he did bring back a small stone that emitted a radiant honey golden light—a relic from their expedition.
Dealing with the loss of friends and the sobering lessons learned during their excursion was a challenge for Baxter. The journey had changed him, deepening his understanding of the world's complexities and the importance of the relationships he held dear. Over time, he found a way to come to terms with his emotions and integrate the lessons he had learned into his perspective on life.
Baxter's young adulthood marked a period of self-discovery, growth, and the realization that even in the face of challenges, he could navigate the intricacies of the world with his intellect and sensitivity intact. As he moved forward, these qualities would continue to shape his interactions and guide him in his pursuits as an investigator.
=== Adulthood: ===
As Baxter entered adulthood, the time had come for him to make a significant life choice. Drawing inspiration from his mother's career as a police officer, he found himself captivated by the idea of solving crimes and safeguarding the well-being of the community. This led him to follow in her footsteps, joining the police force of Minus. Over the course of the next two decades, he demonstrated unwavering commitment and determination, climbing through the ranks to become a detective. His dedication to his work was unmatched; he would immerse himself so deeply in a case that he often took his work home, spent nights at the office, or even forgot to prioritize his own basic needs. 
Baxter's tireless efforts didn't go unnoticed by his superiors, earning him their respect and recognition. Yet, even as his career flourished, there was an underlying emptiness within him. This void was eventually filled by the unexpected entry of love into his life. Neil, another member of the Rougarou community and a fellow police officer, became the source of Baxter's affections. Their connection was powerful and deep, leading them to embark on a decade-long journey together.
Baxter's dedication to his work, however, began to strain his relationship with Neil. The stark contrast between their career approaches became evident: Baxter was driven to ascend the ranks, while Neil preferred the comfort of less demanding assignments. The demands of Baxter's job often kept them apart, leaving Neil feeling neglected and unfulfilled. While Baxter saw his dedication to his career as a reflection of his commitment to both his job and their future, Neil began to question whether he would always be second to his work.
The culmination of these conflicts led to Neil's decision to leave Baxter. The relationship that had once seemed unbreakable faltered under the weight of their differing priorities. Despite Baxter's dedication to his work, he realized the depth of his love for Neil and the void that his absence left. The breakup left Baxter heartbroken, and he struggled to move on from the one he had believed was his soulmate.
Baxter's adulthood has been marked by professional success and personal loss, a dichotomy that continues to shape his actions and emotions. His dedication to his job remains steadfast, but the pain of losing Neil serves as a constant reminder of the need to find a balance between his career and personal life.
=== Constables: ===
In the present, Baxter finds himself living a solitary life in his home in Minus. Having achieved the rank of Detective, he's fully immersed in his work, particularly the challenging case involving the rampant distribution of the dangerous alchemical drug, Balsean. Baxter's promotion is a testament to his relentless dedication and determination within the police force. However, his professional success hasn't alleviated the personal turmoil he continues to face. 
The absence of Neil, his former partner and love, still weighs heavily on him. Baxter's reluctance to attend family gatherings without Neil reflects his struggle to move forward and create a new identity for himself outside of their relationship. This emotional burden has led him to become somewhat of a recluse, isolating himself from the social interactions that he once enjoyed.
Despite his self-imposed isolation, Baxter's life takes an unexpected turn as he becomes entangled with two individuals: Gutz Wanderlust and Vidram Nalen. Gutz, a Tiefling with a background as an ex-Ruthenian soldier and member of the Order of the Hawk, has transitioned into a role as a Minus Constable. The two join forces, likely finding common ground in their commitment to law enforcement and their shared desire to uphold justice.
Vidram Nalen, another Constable in Minus, is a family man with ties to the blacksmithing profession. His role as a husband and father demonstrates a different facet of life that Baxter might find difficult to relate to, given his past experiences. Despite their differences, the Constables' pursuit of justice brings them together on a critical mission: tracking down an elusive assassin known as Onyx. This Drow operative is affiliated with the sinister Society of the Obsidian Knife, a formidable adversary.
Amid their pursuit of Onyx, Baxter, Gutz, and Vidram find themselves embroiled in a complex web of criminal activities, including their efforts to uncover the source of the illicit Balsean trade. As they navigate the challenges of their investigation, Baxter's dedication to his work and his commitment to justice remain unwavering, even as he contends with the lingering echoes of lost love and personal struggles.
=== The Everforge: ===
In their pursuit of justice, the group finds an unexpected ally in the form of Bethany Dawkins, a charismatic and resourceful Demi-human Catfolk who works as a local private detective. Bethany's charming nature and helpful insights prove to be invaluable to the investigation, and Baxter quickly develops a liking for her. Her presence brings a fresh perspective to the team, and her unique skills complement their efforts as they navigate the complexities of the case.
As their investigation takes them to Site B: The Everforge, a cutting-edge weapon and development facility founded by the renowned inventor Jonathan Grayson, the stakes escalate further. Within the depths of the forge, tragedy strikes as Gutz is gravely wounded by the assassin Onyx. Baxter is profoundly affected by Gutz's sacrifice and her untimely death, and his determination to bring justice to her memory intensifies.
Despite the loss, Baxter's resolve remains unshaken, and he continues to pursue Onyx even deeper into the labyrinthine corridors of The Everforge. Guided by a mixture of grief, determination, and a burning desire for answers, Baxter follows the trail of the assassin until it leads him to a computer terminal. Driven by a sense of urgency, Baxter haphazardly engages with the terminal, unaware of the intricate clockwork mechanisms it's connected to.
Unbeknownst to Baxter, his interaction with the terminal triggers the awakening of an advanced clockwork entity named ArEm. This highly sophisticated creation, brought to life by Jonathan Grayson's ingenuity, joins Baxter's side in an unexpected twist of fate. With ArEm's mechanical prowess and knowledge, the dynamic of the investigation shifts once again, providing Baxter with an unexpected ally in their relentless pursuit of justice.
Together with Bethany and the newly activated ArEm, Baxter's mission to uncover the truth behind the criminal operations and bring down the Society of the Obsidian Knife takes on a new dimension. As they navigate the challenges ahead, the bonds between these unlikely allies grow stronger, setting the stage for a final confrontation that could reshape the fate of Minus and expose the secrets that have long been hidden in the shadows.
=== Discordia: ===
After their intense journey at The Everforge and the tragic loss of Gutz, life in Minus takes an unexpected turn for Baxter. While the pain of Gutz's death still lingers, he finds solace and companionship in his growing relationship with Bethany Dawkins. Their courtship progresses smoothly, and Baxter begins to experience happiness again, even though Vidram has had to step away from the investigation.
Amidst this budding romance, Baxter's investigative team expands with the addition of Knight Raynor Virgil Thorpe. Virgil's arrival brings both his expertise and a renewed sense of purpose to the group, strengthening their resolve to unravel the mysteries that have plagued Minus.
However, Baxter's world becomes even more complex as he starts experiencing visions of Gutz. These ghostly encounters serve as a constant reminder of the loss he's endured and add a layer of the supernatural to their investigations.
As their pursuit of answers continues, a significant turning point occurs when the investigators acquire the Book of the Dead. Baxter's curiosity drives him to read from the book, resulting in an unexpected journey to a realm called Discordia—a plane of the Abyss. In this treacherous and otherworldly domain, they stumble upon a celestial being named Nuriel, who has been imprisoned. Baxter, alongside Virgil and the rest of the team, manages to free Nuriel from her captivity, igniting a new alliance with this enigmatic entity.
Within Discordia, they also encounter a demonic manifestation of Gutz, a twisted and malevolent version of their fallen comrade. In a dramatic and harrowing battle, the investigators rally together to rescue Gutz from the clutches of darkness, ultimately triumphing over the demonic forces that sought to claim her soul.
With Nuriel and Gutz now by their side, the group orchestrates a daring escape from Discordia and returns to the Material Plane. This successful mission brings both closure and renewed determination to Baxter and his team, as they continue to navigate the intricate web of secrets, supernatural forces, and the ever-present threat of the Society of the Obsidian Knife.
== Appearance: ==
Baxter Ross is an imposing figure, a Demi-Human man-dog who commands attention with his stature and presence. Standing at an impressive 6 feet 4 inches, he possesses a blend of strength and bulk that exudes a sense of authority. His build is a mixture of muscle and a touch of added weight, contributing to his distinctive appearance that sets him apart from the crowd.
His attire is simple and functional, reflective of his role as an investigator who navigates both the streets and the corridors of law enforcement. Beneath a chain shirt that adds a layer of protection, Baxter wears a crisp white buttoned shirt. Whether his sleeves are rolled up or neatly buttoned is secondary to the air of professionalism he carries. Tucked into beige slacks that complement his choice of attire, his ensemble maintains a blend of practicality and professionalism.
Completing his look is a pair of dressy shoes that contribute to his polished appearance, suitable for both the rigors of his investigative work and any official engagements he might find himself in.
Baxter's belt serves as a utilitarian arsenal, displaying an assortment of tools that signify his preparedness for any situation. Among his gear are a billyclub and a revolver, essentials for someone who navigates the often unpredictable terrain of law enforcement. The tools of his trade represent his commitment to maintaining order and ensuring the safety of Pneumanor's citizens.
A point of light that hovers above his head serves as a unique characteristic, perhaps a symbol of his unrelenting pursuit of justice. It adds an intriguing element to his appearance, hinting at a deeper layer of his identity or perhaps a reminder of a specific trait that sets him apart.
Baxter Ross's appearance is a reflection of his dual roles: a dedicated investigator committed to upholding the law, and a presence that commands respect and attention in the complex and sometimes dangerous world he navigates.
== Traits and Personality: ==
Baxter Ross possesses a unique combination of traits and personality characteristics that shape his identity and guide his actions:
Dedicated Investigator: Baxter's commitment to his role as a detective is unwavering. His dedication to solving crimes and protecting the community drives him to tirelessly pursue justice, often to the point of neglecting his own well-being.
Sensitive Soul: Despite his imposing appearance, Baxter is a gentle and sensitive individual. He finds solace in creative outlets like poetry, math, and music. This sensitivity allows him to connect deeply with others and understand their emotions.
Loyal Friend: Baxter's loyalty knows no bounds. Whether it's his devotion to his family, his dedication to his investigation team, or his unwavering feelings for Gutz and Neil, he remains steadfast in his relationships.
Introverted Reflectiveness: Baxter tends to think deeply and introspectively. This introspection often leads him to overthink situations and interactions, making him cautious about his choices.
Empathetic: Baxter's sensitivity extends to his ability to empathize with others. He's skilled at understanding the emotions and perspectives of those around him, making him a compassionate and supportive friend.
Workaholic: Baxter's strong work ethic and dedication to his job often lead him to become consumed by his investigations. He has a tendency to prioritize his work over his personal needs, which can sometimes isolate him from others.
Romantic: Baxter's heart is open to love, even though he has experienced heartbreak. His romantic feelings for Bethany Dawkins showcase his willingness to give love another chance.
Resilient: Despite facing numerous challenges and losses, Baxter continues to persevere. His resilience is evident in his determination to overcome adversity and seek justice, even in the face of supernatural forces and personal struggles.
Curious: Baxter's inquisitive nature drives him to seek answers and dig deeper into mysteries. His curiosity often leads him into dangerous situations but also fuels his determination to uncover the truth.
Insecure: Beneath his confident exterior, Baxter struggles with self-doubt and insecurities. He often questions whether he's doing enough or making the right choices, especially in matters of personal relationships.
Unintentional Heroism: Baxter's actions often lead him into heroic situations, driven by his commitment to doing what's right. He doesn't seek recognition, but his bravery and sense of duty frequently shine through.
Haunted by Loss: The loss of Gutz and the end of his relationship with Neil weigh heavily on Baxter's heart. He is haunted by memories and regrets, which sometimes cloud his judgment and emotional well-being.
In essence, Baxter Ross is a complex individual whose dedication, sensitivity, and perseverance define his journey as an investigator and his quest for justice, even in the face of personal challenges and supernatural mysteries.
== Trivia: ==
* Loves smooth jazz and blues
* Knows origami 
* Great with children
* Prefers spicy foods
* Doesn’t wear a tie anymore; Neil always tied it for him, he doesn’t know how and is too embarrassed to admit it
* Not good at gauging his alcohol tolerance and tends to overdrink