Ryder Maxwell

== Ryder Maxwell ==
Ryder Maxwell is a 12-year-old red dragon standing at a height of 1'6". Despite his young age, Ryder carries a heavy burden of emotional pain. He struggles with feelings of despair and self-destructive thoughts due to the constant mistreatment he receives from his father, Tyler. 
Ryder's vibrant red scales reflect his fiery spirit, but underneath lies a wounded soul. The neglect and physical abuse inflicted upon him by his father have taken a toll on his emotional well-being. Ryder yearns for love, support, and understanding, but instead, he faces constant rejection and pain.
In this challenging journey, Ryder finds solace in his one-sided friendship with James. Although their bond is not always reciprocated, James provides a glimmer of hope and companionship for Ryder. Despite the uneven nature of their friendship, Ryder cherishes the moments when James is there for him, offering a much-needed source of comfort and stability.
Ryder's story is one of resilience, as he battles the darkness within him while longing for a sense of belonging and acceptance.
== History ==
Ryder Maxwell was born on January 6, 2010, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. At a tender age of four, his life took a drastic turn when his mother ran away, leaving him in the care of his father, Tyler. This sudden abandonment left Ryder feeling lost and abandoned, longing for the warmth and love of a mother that he never got to experience.
When Ryder turned six, Tyler decided to move to Brooks, seeking a fresh start. However, this new beginning brought its own set of challenges. Ryder's father would frequently disappear for days and hours at a time, leaving him alone and vulnerable. Tyler's absence was due to his struggles with addiction, as he would often indulge in alcohol, drugs and sex.
As the years went by, Ryder's father's reckless behavior took a toll on their lives. In 2020, their unstable living situation resulted in an eviction notice. Determined to find stability, they made the difficult decision to relocate to Calgary, Alberta. It was a chance for a fresh start, a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos.
Today, Ryder and Tyler reside in Calgary, where they continue to navigate the challenges that life throws their way. Despite the hardships and the scars they carry, Ryder remains resilient, longing for a sense of stability and a place to call home. As he grows older, he hopes to find his own path, free from the pain of his past and the burdens he carries.
== Appearance ==
Ryder, the courageous and enigmatic character, is a unique being with a physical appearance that commands attention. Standing at a mere 1 foot 6 inches, he may seem small in stature, but his presence is anything but diminutive.
Ryder's body is adorned with vibrant red scales, which shimmer and reflect light, giving him an aura of power and mystique. Each scale is meticulously crafted, adding to his overall majestic appearance. His scales provide him with a resilient armor, protecting him from harm and symbolizing his resilience in the face of adversity.
His piercing yellow eyes, like two gleaming orbs, hold a captivating gaze that seems to see beyond the surface. They reflect his intelligence, determination, and a spark of mischief that lies within him. Ryder's eyes are windows to his soul, revealing a depth of emotions and a spirit that is both curious and unwavering.
As a dragon, Ryder possesses a sleek and agile physique, allowing him to move with grace and precision. His body is lean and streamlined, allowing him to navigate through the air effortlessly. Ryder's wings, extending from his back, are strong and expansive, enabling him to soar through the skies with unmatched freedom and grace.
Overall, Ryder's physical description encompasses the essence of a fiery and captivating character. His small stature belies his immense presence, while his striking red scales and mesmerizing yellow eyes reflect his inner strength and determination. Ryder, the red dragon, is a sight to behold, leaving a lasting impression on all who encounter him.
== Personality ==
Ryder's past experiences have shaped him into a dragon with a complex and resilient personality. The emotional scars of being neglected and abused by his own father have left deep wounds that continue to impact him. Despite the pain he endured, Ryder's spirit remains unbroken, as he possesses an inner strength that fuels his determination to overcome adversity.
The absence of a nurturing figure in his life has made Ryder crave connection and acceptance. His friendship with six-year-old James offers a glimmer of solace in an otherwise challenging world. Although James can be physically aggressive towards Ryder, there is a sense of warmth and care in their relationship. Ryder appreciates the moments of kindness and understanding James extends to him, even if they are overshadowed by occasional outbursts of aggression.
The lack of reliable support and a safe space to express his emotions has caused Ryder to develop a habit of bottling up his feelings. He has learned to keep his pain hidden, shielding himself from further harm. This self-protective mechanism has shaped his current demeanor, making him guarded and cautious around others. It may take time for him to trust and open up, as he fears being hurt or rejected once again.
Despite his guarded nature, Ryder possesses a deep reservoir of resilience and determination. He has learned to navigate through life's challenges with a tenacious spirit, refusing to let his past define him. Ryder's experiences have instilled in him a sense of empathy and understanding for others who may be facing similar struggles. He carries within him a profound compassion, driven by the knowledge of how it feels to be alone and in need of support.
In summary, Ryder's personality is a complex blend of resilience, guardedness, and a longing for connection. His past experiences have shaped him into a dragon who carries emotional scars but remains determined to overcome adversity. Through his friendship with James, he finds moments of solace, even amidst occasional aggression. With time, patience, and understanding, Ryder has the potential to heal and grow into a dragon who embraces his vulnerability and finds strength in his ability to connect with others.
== Season Appearances ==
Season 1: 12 Appearances