Thaddeus Blackthorn

**Thaddeus Blackthorn**
***18.Oct.1022 SC**-**21.Oct.1079 SC***

**Place of birth:**Emberbrook

**Thaddeus Blackthorn** remains one of the most celebrated figures in the annals of modern Tormentia history. Renowned primarily for his unparalleled skills as a gunslinger, Blackthorn's escapades as an adventurer and occasional bounty hunter have solidified his place in the realm's lore. While his legendary status is often extolled through tales of his heroism and prowess, it is inextricably intertwined with a profound personal tragedy that led to a precipitous withdrawal from public life. This duality of fame and seclusion renders Thaddeus Blackthorn not just a figure of admiration, but also of deep scholarly intrigue.

## Biography

### Childhood

Born in the **18th of October 1022 SC**, Thaddeus Blackthorn hailed from the humble town of Emberbrook, a relatively impoverished settlement nestled in the heartlands of Ebonreach Marshes. The modest circumstances of his birth offer a stark contrast to the legendary stature he would later attain in life.

Blackthorn's formative years in Emberbrook were characterized by a milieu typical of townsfolk in such regions, with rudimentary education and an intimate sense of community. Despite the limitations posed by the town's economic situation, young Thaddeus displayed an indomitable spirit and a proclivity for adventure from an early age. Records and personal testimonies from contemporaries depict him as a spirited child with an insatiable curiosity, often found exploring the outskirts of Emberbrook or engrossed in tales of far-off lands and heroic endeavors. This thirst for exploration and a predisposition towards valorous acts laid the groundwork for the illustrious journey he would undertake in his later years.

### Becoming an adventurer

The transition from boyhood to adolescence brought forth notable challenges for Thaddeus. The socio-political landscape of Emberbrook underwent significant changes when a wealthy outsider, Otis Brazenlob, graced the town with his imposing presence. Brazenlob, having amassed considerable wealth, purchased Emberbrook's primary inn, thereby establishing a palpable dominance over the local community. His demeanor, however, was marred by arrogance and a sense of entitlement, which often manifested in derogatory treatment towards the townsfolk.

The relationship between the Blackthorn family and Brazenlob deteriorated rapidly, culminating in an incident that would alter the course of Thaddeus's life. One evening, in a fit of haughtiness, Brazenlob openly derided Thaddeus's mother, mocking her appearance and questioning her moral integrity in front of a crowd. This public humiliation, coupled with the emotional weight of seeing his mother distraught, sparked an uncontrollable rage within the young Blackthorn. In a moment of blinding fury, Thaddeus confronted Brazenlob and, in the ensuing scuffle, delivered a fatal blow.

Grasping the magnitude of his actions and the imminent threat of retribution, Thaddeus hastily acquired Brazenlob's state-of-the-art revolver, symbol of the man's wealth and ostentation. Without a backward glance, he fled Emberbrook, leaving behind a life of familiarity and stepping into the uncertain realms of adventure and survival. Thus began the legendary journey of Thaddeus Blackthorn, the renowned gunslinger and adventurer.

### Notable adventures

#### Cleansing Silverwood Pass

On **25th of April 1042 SC**, Thaddeus Blackthorn's initial renowned escapade transpired at Silverwood Pass, an intricate pathway characterized by its dense vegetation and serpentine terrains. During his expedition, Blackthorn inadvertently encountered a syndicate of bandits orchestrating a meticulously planned ambush. Demonstrating acute reflexes and tactical prowess, he not only neutralized the threat but also apprehended their ringleader, effectively disrupting their illicit activities. This episode of valor and astuteness rapidly disseminated throughout the vicinity, enhancing Blackthorn's stature as a formidable opponent against criminal forces

#### The Rescue of Willowbrook

On **12th of January 1045 SC**, the secluded town of Willowbrook, situated on the fringes of an imposing marsh, was besieged by a group of raiders commanded by the infamous outlaw Abigail Waterwell. Coincidentally, Thaddeus had reached Willowbrook shortly before this incursion and took on the assailants. An intense confrontation materialized, culminating in a perilous and severe exchange of gunfire between Blackthorn and Waterwell, with Blackthorn narrowly securing victory. His audacious endeavors and unwavering tenacity rendered him a cherished figure in Willowbrook's history, celebrated as their gallant protector.

#### The battle of Bloodmoon Canyon

In Bloodmoon Canyon the nefarious group dubbed the Bloodmoon Outlaws held sway. As they escalated their reign of terror, Thaddeus decided to challenge their formidable leader, Rupert Crowley. Their legendary confrontation transpired on the **7st of September 1050 SC**. Against overwhelming odds, Blackthorn triumphed, eliminating Crowley and effectively halting the Outlaws' dominance. Reports of Blackthorn's valor permeated the land, elevating him as a beacon of hope in the face of anarchy.

#### Ironhold Onslaught

Within the fortified walls of Ironhold Keep, a momentous conflict, known later as the Ironhold Onslaught, unfolded. A sizable cadaver horde mounted an assault on the keep, and amid the initial chaos, the keep's commander, Knox Shadowton, tragically met his demise. As panic threatened to consume the garrison, the unforeseen leadership of an adventurer Thaddeus emerged. Leveraging his sharpshooter skills and tactical prowess, Blackthorn orchestrated a defense that ultimately decimated the advancing horde. This pivotal encounter not only cemented Blackthorn's reputation but also underscored the perpetual menace of cadaver incursions.

### Eleanora Tuperik

On the **16th of March 1055 SC**, as Thaddeus meandered into the town of Eldertree Hollow, he sought respite at a quaint local tavern called the Silverwood Hearth. It was here that his path first intersected with Eleanora Tuperik, a spirited and comely servant of the establishment. With an allure that was hard to overlook, Eleanora was immediately smitten by the renowned adventurer, captivated by his tales of valor and the rugged charm he exuded.

Eleanora, with her bright eyes and vivacious demeanor, approached Thaddeus frequently, always eager to share a conversation or simply to offer him the finest drinks the tavern had. Every encounter was a blend of light-hearted jests, deep conversations, and sometimes, songs shared over a warm fire.

However, for Thaddeus, Eleanora was initially a delightful acquaintance rather than a romantic interest. He appreciated her company and was always courteous, but he regarded her more as a friend than a potential partner.

Over the subsequent years, Thaddeus's journeys often led him back to Eldertree Hollow. And every time he returned, Eleanora, ever persistent, sought to spend time with him, hoping to kindle a deeper bond. Whether it was a walk down the street or a quiet evening at the tavern, Eleanora seized every opportunity to grow closer to Thaddeus.

On the night of **30th of May 1059 SC**, Eldertree Hollow bore witness to a transformative moment in Thaddeus's life. An uncharacteristic compulsion overcame him, an allure so powerful that he felt an immediate and inescapable urge to seek out Eleanora. Drawn to her with an intensity he had never known before, Thaddeus professed his profound love for her under the moonlit sky. Their whirlwind romance culminated in a hastened wedding, celebrated just days later, on **5st of June 1059 SC**.

However, the union, which promised eternal happiness, soon revealed its ominous undertones. Thaddeus's affection morphed into an oppressive obsession, tinged with a dark shade of possessiveness. Eleanora, once elated by Thaddeus's declaration, soon felt suffocated. The spontaneity and freedom she once cherished became distant memories, as Thaddeus's unrelenting presence cast a shadow over her every move.

In the months that followed, their home turned into Eleanora's prison. She yearned for the liberty she had once enjoyed and longed to escape the stifling atmosphere. On **3st of September 1059 SC**, driven by desperation and a thirst for freedom, Eleanora decided to flee the confines of Eldertree Hollow. But Thaddeus's instinctual awareness, sharpened by his paranoia, detected her departure.

As night enveloped the town, he pursued her with a relentless determination, finally cornering her in the outskirts. As Thaddeus approached, Eleanora's footsteps faltered, her breath catching in her throat. The look in Thaddeus's eyes was unfamiliar, a dark storm of possessiveness and betrayal, fueled by unchecked jealousy. The silence was palpable, with only the sounds of the Mistwrought's nocturnal creatures punctuating the tension.

Thaddeus, voice quivering with suppressed rage, interrogated Eleanora, demanding to know the reasons for her clandestine departure. Each word from him was laced with suspicion, accusing her of unfaithfulness and betrayal. Eleanora, in a desperate bid to defend her honor and integrity, vehemently denied the accusations. She tried to convey the suffocation she felt, the yearning for freedom, and her desperation to rediscover the life she once cherished.

But communication between the two had broken down irreparably. Every attempt at explanation was met with skepticism, every plea for understanding with incredulity. The atmosphere grew increasingly volatile, with Thaddeus's emotions spiraling out of control. Their voices escalated, the verbal altercation echoing through the silent night, reaching a crescendo of anguish and desperation. As their discord reached its zenith, Thaddeus, overcome by blinding jealousy and suspicion, lunged at Eleanora. His fingers found her delicate neck, and what initially might have been intended as an impassioned grasp quickly transformed into a choking grip.

Eleanora's eyes mirrored sheer panic and fear. She tried desperately to free herself, her hands flailing, attempting to pry Thaddeus's fingers away. Her breath grew shallow, and her struggles weaker, as the cruel pressure on her windpipe persisted. The hollow's nocturnal ambiance became the somber witness to this tragic event; the rustling leaves and distant owl hoots the only sounds accompanying her muffled gasps.

Minutes, which felt like an eternity, passed. Eleanora's resistance waned, her vision blurring, and her strength dissipating. Her final moments were marked by fleeting memories of happier times and a desperate yearning for a different outcome. Eventually, her body went limp, her once vibrant spirit extinguished.

Thaddeus, suddenly coming to the realization of the magnitude of his actions, released his grip. Eleanora's lifeless form crumpled to the ground, a chilling testament to the destructive power of unchecked emotions. Thaddeus stared down, horror etched across his features, at the irreversible consequence of that fateful night's confrontation.

### Seeking death

In the moments after Eleanora's life force ebbed away, an uncanny clarity washed over Thaddeus. It was as if a heavy, obscuring veil had been lifted from his mind, and he suddenly found himself viewing the world and his actions with an acute sense of comprehension. The pervasive unnatural obsession that had gripped him for months had seemingly vanished, leaving in its wake a profound remorse and a realization of the horror of his actions.

Staring at Eleanora's lifeless form, the weight of the reality bore down on him. He was acutely aware that the punishment for such a heinous act would undoubtedly be execution. The communities of Tormentia were unyielding in their retribution for murder, particularly one so brutal and unprovoked. With a heavy heart, his thoughts turned to self-preservation.

Desperation drove Thaddeus to the perilous region of Stormlash Valley, a place avoided by most due to the constant threat of cadaver onslaughts. As he ventured deeper into the cursed lands, he secretly yearned for the release of death by the gnashing teeth of the dreaded cadavers. Such a death, he hoped, would serve as a penance, a chance at redemption for the grave sin he had committed.

Yet, the anticipated end eluded him. Time and again, Thaddeus found himself emerging unscathed from encounters with the ravenous hordes. His sharpshooter skills, honed over years of adventure, and his innate survival instincts consistently saw him through. It seemed fate had other plans for him, a prolonged penance rather than a swift release.

Wandering through the desolate expanse, Thaddeus eventually stumbled upon the ruins of Summercliff, a once-great city now lying in dilapidation and decay. Here, amidst the silent echoes of a fallen civilization, Thaddeus sought refuge. The sprawling remnants of the city provided ample hideouts from the roaming cadaver packs and perilous voltquakes. Over time, he fashioned a secluded dwelling amidst the city's ruins, living off the land, his existence a mere shadow of his former vibrant self.

As the years trickled by, Thaddeus's once stout physique began to wane. The challenges of surviving in the inhospitable region, coupled with the emotional toll of his past actions, weighed heavily upon him. Eventually, old age and the hardships of his solitary existence took their toll. On **21th of October 1079 SC** as the winds howled through the skeletal remains of Summercliff, Thaddeus succumbed to a raging fever. Alone, with no one by his side, he took his final breath, his tormented soul finding the peace that had eluded him in life.

## Appearance

Thaddeus was the embodiment of dashing allure, known not just for his adventurous exploits but also for his impeccable sense of style. Standing tall with a confident posture, he sported a mane of long, dark brown hair that cascaded gracefully down his back, often catching glints of sunlight during his outdoor escapades. This luxurious hair was complemented by a neatly trimmed beard, which framed his face and emphasized the sharpness of his features.

His sartorial choices were as distinctive as they were elegant. A long brown coat, tailored to perfection, draped over his broad shoulders, reaching down to his calves. It swayed with a rhythmic grace as he moved, a testament to the quality of its craftsmanship. The coat's deep brown hue was a perfect match for the ruggedness of his adventures, often standing out in stark contrast to the various terrains he traversed.

Topping off his ensemble was a brown tricorn hat, a symbol of his penchant for the finer things in life. Positioned at a slight angle, it gave him a roguish charm, its pointed tips casting fleeting shadows over his intense eyes. The tricorn not only added an element of grandeur to his appearance but also served a functional purpose, shielding him from the sun and rain during his many journeys.

All in all, Thaddeus's appearance was a harmonious blend of adventure and elegance, making him a memorable figure in the annals of Tormentia's history.

## Personality

Thaddeus epitomized the quintessential dashing adventurer. His personality was characterized by a blend of daring audacity and a profound sense of justice. Always ready to leap into action, Thaddeus faced challenges head-on, driven by an unyielding courage that often saw him emerging victorious against seemingly insurmountable odds. His bravery was not just physical but also moral; he possessed a strict ethical compass, guiding him to stand up for what he believed was right, even if it put him at odds with the world.

His charisma was undeniable, and it extended particularly to his interactions with women. Thaddeus was a natural charmer, effortlessly drawing the attention of many with his magnetic presence, eloquent speech, and captivating stories of his adventures. He was, by all accounts, a true ladies' man. However, his roving spirit and love for freedom meant that he never seriously contemplated the notions of marriage or settling down. His heart belonged to the open road and the promise of the next adventure.

Despite his many romantic liaisons, Thaddeus remained mostly oblivious to the depths of emotions he stirred in others. His fleeting relationships, while passionate, often left a trail of heartbroken admirers in his wake. To him, these affairs were just another aspect of his adventurous life, rarely holding his attention for long. He seemed, at times, unaware of the profound impact he had on those he encountered, focused as he was on his own journey and the horizons yet to be explored.