John Stroker

## **Early Life**

In the crisp, early spring of 1860, a baby boy was born in a humble cabin just outside the small, coal-mining town of Annesburg. The babe's cries echoed through the woods as he took his first breaths, announcing his arrival to the world. His parents, Millie and Jeb Stroker, named him John, a name that would echo through time. As soon as he could walk, John was put to work. Life in the mining community was harsh, and every pair of hands counted. His small frame, clad in rough, hand-me-down clothes, was a familiar sight in the mines. John's determination set him apart from the other boys, though. He aimed to be the best worker in those dark, unforgiving tunnels, but despite his efforts, the wages he earned were meager, barely enough to sustain his family. One day, as John gazed at the endless horizon of the Appalachian Mountains, he decided that he needed to seek a brighter future. He had heard tales of Saint Denis, a bustling city that promised opportunities and riches beyond his wildest dreams. With a heavy heart, he left his family behind, determined to return one day with a fortune in hand. In Saint Denis, John found himself lost amidst the cobblestone streets and towering buildings. It was there that he met Sophia Kiramman, a young woman with a spirit as free as the wind. Sophia was yet to be married, and John was immediately captivated by her grace and beauty. They became inseparable, wandering the vibrant city hand in hand.

## **Love Life**

But love is a fickle thing. As the years passed, John's affection shifted. Sophia was no longer an option, as she had already committed herself to another. John's heart now belonged to her sister, Alexandra. Their love blossomed like the spring flowers, and soon, they were wed. Their union brought forth two children, Annie and Preston. Annie, the elder of the two, was a fiery soul, quick to challenge the boundaries of her parents' patience. In contrast, Preston was a quiet, studious child, showing a remarkable aptitude for learning. Despite the joys of family life, dark clouds loomed on the horizon. Troubling rumors spread through the town about a 'Tarot Card Killer.' Fear and suspicion crept into John's heart, and he began to look at Alexandra with wary eyes. One night, as John was searching for something in their home, he stumbled upon a collection of hidden notes and letters. They hinted at secret meetings that Alexandra had been attending, and his heart sank. She was sneaking out at night, leaving their home shrouded in secrecy. Unable to ignore the mounting evidence, John decided to confront Sophia, hoping she might shed light on the situation. However, Sophia was going through a messy divorce with a man named James. Their arguments shook the Kiramman estate, and tensions ran high. Around this time, a mysterious woman appeared at the Kiramman estate, causing turmoil among the residents. No one knew her true identity, but her presence sent ripples of unease through the household. John found himself drawn to Sophia even more, seeking refuge in her company. Eventually, Sophia gave birth to a child named Ezra, but James was still a part of her life. To protect Ezra and maintain the façade, Sophia and John kept the truth hidden from James, a secret that would haunt them for years to come.

## An Escape

As time passed, Sophia made the daring decision to flee the Kiramman estate, claiming she needed to escape Saint and James. She offered John the chance to escape with her and her two children, Judy and Ezra. John knew little about Saint, but he agreed, leaving his own children, Annie and Preston, behind with their mother, Alexandra. The four embarked on a journey that led them to the quiet town of Rhodes. There, John worked tirelessly to provide for Sophia and her children, Judy and Ezra, becoming a father figure to them both. Judy, however, remained distant and resentful of John's presence. She shut herself off emotionally, and despite John's best efforts, he struggled to connect with her. Life in Rhodes was not without its challenges. One morning, John awoke to find Sophia in tears. Judy had vanished, leaving behind only a cryptic note. The town rallied to search for the missing girl, but she remained elusive. Time passed, and history repeated itself when Ezra also disappeared without a trace. Sophia, consumed by fear and grief, spiraled into madness. Their relationship strained to the breaking point, and John was forced to part ways with her, a decision that tore at his heart. With a heavy heart, John turned to the law to find purpose and meaning in his life. He became a defender of the city, using his newfound knowledge of the legal system to ensure justice was served. Throughout the years, John regained a relationship with his son, Preston and had a few conversations and casual telegrams with his daughter, Annie.. but she hasn't replied to the last one he sent a year ago.

## Ruthless

In Ruthless, John, Stroker, strives to be an amazing lawman and live out his life as he would while uncovering secrets that were buried deep, deep in the past. Maybe those secrets will cause him to lose everything?