Lucien Blackwood

"Always worth a shot tryin' to be nice to people. Strangers are friends y'just haven't met yet."

## Physical Description

### Eye Color

Green

A newly formed Chosen turned knight-errant from Catania, he seeks to understand what it means to be Chosen and figure out his true path.

## History

A simple man born to simple folk, Lucien originally hails from the small village of Hazelwell in the Kingdom of Catania. His early years were spent maintaining the family farm and the hard work that comes with it. His only escape from the life of the land were the infrequent trips to larger towns and all the books Lucien was able to purchase. The notions of becoming a hero, like in the stories he'd read, were merely that - just stories. The glamorous idea of leaving home began to fade as responsibilities increased, so Lucien resigned himself to his fate.

But what would've been the life of a simple farmer was disrupted during the hobgoblin-led goblin alliance *Lenkashan Diktat* and it's raiding of the Hazelwell area. Lucien, a member of the local militia, stood amongst other members and adventurers during the raids but not before his home was destroyed. The land was razed and Lucien was struck down in the ensuing chaos, left for dead in the crimson-stained soil of his former home. When he awoke some time later, consumed by fear and confusion, his only thoughts were of his family - and thankfully they were spared. While his body healed from the trauma, the scar remains as a reminder of his loss at the stroke of a Hobgoblin blade.

With their fortunes salted and burned, his family was forced to move in the hopes of finding better opportunity. Moving to the capital of Catania was best described as a culture shock and Lucien's family struggles amidst their new surroundings, even after the few years of being settled in. Lucien did his best to utilize his experience and size to help provide. Every morning, he'd pass the Waystone, seated firmly in Catania - a stark reminder of heroes and adventure from his books. But, once again, they were just that - just stories. But one cool winter's night - perhaps after a bit too much ale - he placed his hand on the Waystone and brought to mind every emotion buried. Idealism buried under harsh reality, fear and anger at the loss of his home, hope and determination for the future - and the Waystone flared to life.

The stories weren't just stories anymore. He was Chosen.

## Appearance

He stands tall at around six foot, weighing approximately 175 pounds. He cuts a lean, muscular figure honed by years of toiling in the fields and practicing martial pursuits.

His hair is shoulder-length, wavy and chestnut colored. His eyes are a bright, forest green color and his face constantly sports light stubble. His body hosts a healthy amount of body hair. A long scar runs across the left side of his face, cutting across his lips, from cheekbone to chin.

Unarmored, he dresses in simple, practical clothing; preferring neutral or earthy colors. He lacks most accessories save for a small leather bracelet decorated with blue and green beads as well as a bright pink scarf, both given by his younger sisters that he proudly wears.

Unarmored Appearance (courtesy of HeroForge): TBD

Armored Appearance (courtesy of HeroForge): TBD

## Personality

Generally, Lucien is affable and approachable, despite his scarred visage. He possesses a dry sense of humor and speaks slowly with a tinge of drawl that stubbornly persists from his upbringing.

A self-proclaimed introvert, he would never describe himself as the most talkative person, preferring to play the role of listener or allowing others to speak instead. Despite this, he possesses a curious nature; always keen to ask questions and know more - *especially* if danger is involved. This personality trait unfortunately means he can sometimes be indecisive to the point of inaction. Or worse, poke and prod someone about their past they'd rather not share.

He is also a massive nerd for literature, enjoying books of all shapes and sizes. He is a purveyor of all kinds of fiction such as adventure, romance and mysteries. Non-fictionally, he enjoys subjects pertaining to history, culture, nature and engineering. Despite his lack of magical prowess, he's fascinated by all things magic; despite not really understanding how it works.

## Abilities

**Martial Combat**: Lucien is trained in many kinds of weapons and armor.

**Protection**: Lucien often armors himself with the intent to take hits, standing in the front.

**Shield Usage**: Lucien is particularly skilled in fighting with a shield, utilizing it for both defense *and* offense.

**Cooking**: Everyone's gotta eat and Lucien happily will take over cooking duties.

## Notable Equipment

**Longsword -** Lucien is rarely seen without his sword at his hip. It radiates a magical aura. The crossguard and pommel are gold - with the pommel holding a ruby embedded in it. The grip is wrapped in a dark, well-oiled leather and the blade is a shining silver. The sheath and belt are decorated in floral motifs.

**Shield -** What Lucien affectionately refers to as his "oversized dinner plate" is a solid shield of magical metal. He utilizes it in combat as an effective defensive tool while still aptly able to smash it into the face of his enemy.

**Mithral Full Plate Armor -** A full, shining suit of mithral armor is the hallmark piece of Lucien's battle equipment. He manages to look surprisingly nimble in it.

**Pink Scarf -** This bright accessory stands out against Lucien's otherwise neutral/earthy colored equipment. A gift from a Lily - it holds great sentimental value to him. Hilariously, he's had it enchanted to function as a Cloak of Resistance.

**Handy Haversack -** Made of dark leather, this extraplanar bag holds much of his gear. He's usually hiding snacks in there.

## Family

**Thomas Blackwood** - Lucien's father. A quiet, strong man who still plies his trade around the city of Catania.

**Catherine Blackwood** - Lucien's mother. A cheerful, bubbly woman with a heart of gold and a shrewd judge of character.

**Lily Blackwood** - The oldest sister and the sternest of the three. She is currently apprenticed to a tailor in the city of Catania.

**Leiliana Blackwood** - The middle sister and a real firebrand. She currently is working for the city guard within Catania.

**Luna Blackwood** - The youngest sister and the energetic one. She is currently training to become a bard.

## Friends and Associates

**Mayah Lavaux** - The first Chosen that Lucien met. He found Mayah a kindred spirit, finding it strangely easy to be open about his concerns as Chosen and life during a fireside chat. He finds her extremely intelligent and sees her dedication to the Arcanum Ward in Saint Marie and her family's legacy admirable.

**Seoyeong Moon** - Another Chosen that he'd met, Lucien initially found Seo to be a little strange. Her mannerisms and actions, while at first concerning, became clear once she had trusted him enough to share her history. He finds her a strong, capable and intelligent individual - good of heart and ambitious. The attraction that he'd felt instantly was thankfully returned - much to Lucien's relief and joy. While their relationship is still relatively new, he is very obviously head-over-heels for her.

**Farah Sokolova** - A surprising encounter in a secluded library in the city of Tarrasch in Skeksha - Lucien discovered another bookworm. Farah was a tricky one, guarded and quiet, but worked as a Chosen in the dungeons of the city. However, he was concerned his incessant questions would only offend (which they did) and changed their discussion to literary pursuits. He's intrigued by her and is certain there's more to her than meets the eye - especially since her eyes flash with magic.

**Holt** - He was introduced to the traveling librarian at a local book stall in the city of Helios. After a brief discussion of literature and arcane prowess (or lack thereof for Lucien) Holt was kind enough to show Lucien the first library-on-wheels perhaps in creation. He was, however, guarded of his past - deflecting questions in the same way that Lucien does. In addition, a duelist himself, Holt challenged Lucien to a spar. While Lucien was the victor, he was still impressed at Holt's prowess with a blade.