Professor Charles Magnussen

### Appears in

Kirin Tor Intelligence, Arcane Consortium, Vanguard Of Enternal Life, Dalaran Intelligence

### Debut

2018 with the Vanguard of Eternal Life

> "I see your answer assures me you are, in fact, a human being. You spoke with unparalleled skill and eloquence in your lecture, Professor. As admirable as it might be, I would like to bring upon you the fact that most of the people are not intellectuals like yourself, they appreciate seeing other people being human beings.
> Your lecture, while interesting on its own, has some of its parts flying over my head.-The again, I'm not educated myself. Might be my fault there...-well, what you're saying confirms my theory. You do not wish to alter fate because you are pleased with how things are already, and would not want to risk making them worse. That's a very human answer of you."
>
> Blanes - 06.01.21, WoW RP

## History

### **Year - 15 | (Birth)**

Born amidst the bustling streets and towering walls of Gilneas, Charles was welcomed into the world by Charlton and Aileen Magnussen, a couple as ordinary as their simple abode tucked away in a quiet corner of the city. Unburdened by the weight of nobility or royal lineage, they led a life akin to any other, their days filled with the joys and challenges of raising a child. Through their unwavering dedication and sacrifices, they managed to save enough to send Charles to Gilneas City Private School, a place where his innate talent for the Arcane would first blossom.

### **Year -10 | [5 years old] (Noticeable event: Gul'dan is exiled from his clan)**

Like every other child in Gilneas, Charles embarked on his educational journey, attending preschool where he grasped the fundamentals of mathematics and English. Immersed in a classroom filled with peers, he struggled to find common ground, feeling like an outsider among the crowd. The school's tutors recognized his social reticence and attempted to encourage his interactions with others, yet their efforts proved futile.

### **Year -5 | [10 years old]**

Charles continued his education, now delving into more intricate concepts in science, mathematics, and English. Despite his academic progress, he remained socially isolated, spending his days in solitude. However, a glimmer of hope emerged when a fellow student named Acton Brook approached him. Acton's friendly demeanour and genuine interest piqued Charles's attention, and they soon found themselves engaged in games and conversations. Over time, an unlikely friendship blossomed between the two boys, providing Charles with the companionship he craved. Acton became his constant companion during their school days at Gilneas Private School, a beacon of solace in his otherwise solitary existence.

### **Year 0 | [15 years old] (Noticeable event :Dark Portal)**

Charles continued to excel at Gilneas Private School, his academic prowess evident in his top marks across various subjects. At the age of 15, his life took an unexpected turn when he inadvertently revealed his innate talent for wielding the arcane. This revelation caught the attention of his tutors, who recognized the potential that lay dormant within him.

A day or two after this momentous discovery, Charles was summoned by his tutors, who disclosed his latent arcane abilities and recommended him for tutelage under the Magus of Dalaran. This news initially held little significance for Charles, as he was unfamiliar with the arcane's intricacies. The decision ultimately rested with his parents, who, though initially apprehensive about their son's well-being, eventually recognized the immense opportunities that awaited him in Dalaran.

Despite his parents' initial reluctance, they eventually consented to Charles's departure, prioritizing his future prospects and education. In the ensuing weeks, Charles embarked on his journey to Dalaran, embarking on a path destined to transform his life.

His final days at Gilneas Private School were spent cherishing the company of his dear friend Acton and bidding farewell to the tutors who had guided him through his formative years. Adjusting to the unfamiliar lifestyle of Dalaran proved challenging, and Charles found himself grappling with homesickness and longing for his parents' comforting presence.

Despite these initial hurdles, Charles gradually embraced the lessons imparted upon him, immersing himself in the arcane's boundless mysteries. His thirst for knowledge propelled him to expand his understanding of this enigmatic force, leading him down a path of extraordinary discovery and self-actualization.

### **Year 4 | [19 years old] (Second War)**

Four years had elapsed since Charles's arrival in Dalaran, and he had seamlessly integrated into the vibrant city life. His dedication to mastering the arcane arts had paid off, and he had now reached a stage where he could select the specific branches of magic that resonated with him.

Abjuration, the art of self-defence through magic, caught Charles's attention due to its combat-oriented nature. He eagerly absorbed the intricacies of this school, honing his skills to effectively protect himself and his allies.

Transmutation, the ability to transform objects into other forms, presented another captivating area of study. Charles marvelled at the prospect of transfiguring objects into useful tools, such as sheep, monkeys, or even cats. Additionally, he delved into the art of "Blinking," enabling him to propel himself short distances for evasive manoeuvres or rapid travel. Slow Falling, another fascinating technique, allowed him to manipulate time, slowing his descent and preventing fatal falls. Finally, Teleport Creation granted him the power to connect two distant locations, facilitating seamless travel between realms.

Conjuration, the final field of study that captivated Charles, offered the ability to summon creatures and objects to aid him in various endeavours. He envisioned the immense potential of this school, eager to explore its limitless applications.

With unwavering determination, Charles embarked on his chosen path, delving deeper into the arcane arts and mastering their complexities. The promise of becoming a powerful mage fuelled his motivation, and he eagerly anticipated the challenges and rewards that lay ahead.

### **Year 10 | [25 years old]**

Two decades had passed since Charles embarked on his journey to become a mage, diligently honing his arcane prowess and forging enduring friendships along the way. Now, at the age of twenty-five, he stood as a confident Magus, adept in the three branches of magic he had meticulously studied. With a mere word or gesture, he could unleash the arcana's power, shaping reality to his will.

During his years in Dalaran, Charles had cultivated a circle of loyal companions, kindred spirits bound by their shared passion for the arcane arts. These friendships sustained him through the rigorous training and endless hours of study, providing camaraderie and unwavering support. Together, they explored the boundless depths of magic, their combined knowledge and insights propelling them towards mastery.

Charles's mastery of the arcane arts extended beyond theoretical understanding; he possessed the practical skills to wield his power effectively in combat. His movements were fluid and precise, his incantations uttered with unwavering certainty. He could conjure protective barriers, unleash bolts of arcane energy, and manipulate the very fabric of reality, all with a grace that belied the immense power at his fingertips.

As a Magus, Charles was not merely a master of the arcane; he was a beacon of knowledge and wisdom. He sought not only to wield power but also to understand its intricacies, to unravel the mysteries of the universe through the lens of magic. His insatiable thirst for knowledge led him to delve into ancient texts, decipher arcane symbols, and seek guidance from the most revered mages of Dalaran.

Charles's journey as a mage was far from over; he stood at the threshold of limitless possibilities. With his newfound power, he could shape his destiny, leaving an indelible mark on the world. His future was a canvas of endless potential, waiting to be painted with the vibrant hues of his arcane mastery.

### **(Year 17) | [32 years old]**

**(assumed Greymane wall creation after Gilneas was seceded from the Alliance before the Forsaken came to Lordaeron in Year 20)**

Seventeen years had elapsed since Charles's departure from Gilneas, and the yearning to reunite with his beloved parents grew stronger with each passing day. At the age of thirty-two, he resolved to return home, his heart brimming with anticipation for the heart-warming reunion that awaited him.

As he stepped onto the familiar streets of Gilneas, a wave of nostalgia washed over him. The city, once bustling with life, now bore an air of sombre isolation, the towering wall casting an ominous shadow over its inhabitants.

Charles's arrival sent shockwaves of joy through his parents' hearts. The sight of their son, transformed into a powerful mage, filled them with a pride that transcended words. Eager to share his newfound abilities, Charles captivated his parents with a mesmerizing display of arcane prowess, his movements imbued with grace and precision.

Amidst the joyous reunion, the shadow of the looming wall loomed large. Charles, alarmed by the construction's rapid progress, raised concerns with his parents. They explained the growing tensions between Gilneas and the neighbouring kingdom, tensions that had spurred the construction of the formidable barrier.

As the days turned into weeks, the wall stood complete, cutting Gilneas off from the outside world. Charles, initially unaware of the impending isolation,

found himself trapped within the city walls. The once familiar streets now felt like a gilded cage, the weight of his newfound power overshadowed by the oppressive confinement.

### **Year 20 | [35 years old]**

**(Noticeable event :Third War Dalaran Destroyed by Archimonde)**

Confined within the imposing walls of Gilneas, Charles remained blissfully unaware of the catastrophic events that had befallen his beloved city, Dalaran. King Graymane's strict isolationist policies had effectively severed all communication with the outside world, leaving Charles stranded in his hometown.

As the days turned into weeks, Charles grew increasingly restless. The once vibrant city now felt like a prison, its inhabitants trapped in a state of perpetual twilight. The towering wall, once a symbol of protection, had transformed into a suffocating barrier, severing their connection to the wider world.

Despite the oppressive atmosphere, Charles continued to hone his magical abilities, practicing in secret away from the watchful eyes of the king's guards. He meticulously studied ancient texts, deciphered arcane symbols, and sought guidance from the few remaining mages within Gilneas. His determination to master the arcane arts remained unwavering, fuelled by the hope that one day he would break free from his confinement and return to Dalaran.

Meanwhile, beyond the impenetrable walls of Gilneas, Archimonde, the demonic leader of the Burning Legion, unleashed his fury upon Dalaran. The once magnificent city was reduced to smouldering ruins, its inhabitants scattered and its future uncertain. Charles, unaware of this cataclysmic event, continued to live life as normal, his heart aching for the city he had called home for so long.

As the months passed, rumours of Dalaran's destruction began to filter into Gilneas. Charles, initially disbelieving, eventually confronted the grim reality. The city he had cherished, the place where he had honed his magical skills and forged lifelong friendships, was no more.

Grief-stricken and filled with a renewed sense of purpose, Charles vowed to avenge Dalaran's destruction. He trained tirelessly, pushing his magical abilities to their limits. His determination was fuelled by a burning desire to bring justice to those responsible for the city's demise and restore balance to the world.

With his newfound resolve, Charles prepared to break free from the confines of Gilneas and embark on a perilous journey. The path ahead was uncertain, fraught with danger and challenges. Yet, Charles was undeterred, driven by his unwavering commitment to justice and his undying love for Dalaran.

### **Year 28 | [43 years old] (Noticeable event :Battle for Gilneas)**

Charles, having spent a considerable time in Gilneas, had gradually reassimilated into the city's rhythm. However, the tranquil existence was shattered when the devastating events of the Shattering brought down Greymane Wall, leaving the city vulnerable to the encroaching Forsaken.

Gilneas was besieged by the relentless undead army, and the dreaded Worgen curse began to spread, transforming its inhabitants into feral beasts. Charles, determined to protect his parents amidst the chaos, utilized his arcane skills to shield them as they navigated the treacherous city towards the evacuation point.

Despite being aware of the Forsaken's invasion, Charles was unaware of the Worgen curse's rapid transmission. As the family approached the evacuation point, a ferocious worgen emerged from the shadows, its fangs bared and its eyes gleaming with predatory hunger.

Charles, with quick reflexes, urged his parents to continue their escape, promising to hold off the beast. He faced the worgen, attempting to conjure a protective shield, but the creature's swiftness caught him off guard. The worgen lunged, sinking its teeth into Charles's arm.

A surge of arcane energy erupted from Charles's fingertips, blasting the worgen away and momentarily stunning it. Charles, now aware of his infection with the Worgen curse, knew he could not board the escape ship and potentially endanger his family and fellow refugees.

With a heavy heart, Charles watched as his parents disappeared into the horizon, his future uncertain. He knew that the Worgen curse would soon transform him, but he remained determined to fight against the darkness that threatened to consume him.

Clutching the bandages in his pouch, Charles sought refuge in a secluded corner of the city, wrapping a bandage around his wounded arm and another around his chest, hoping to conceal the curse's initial effects from any unaffected individuals assisting with the evacuation.

As the Forsaken continued their relentless assault, Charles prepared for the inevitable transformation, his mind filled with a mixture of fear and determination. He resolved to face the curse with courage and resilience, determined to emerge from the darkness as a force for good.

By FaidhCharles Tom Hiddleston RefrenceCharles, now bitten, knew it would only be a matter of time before the curse took hold of him. As the inevitable transformation approached, he made his way home amidst the chaos, his body succumbing to the curse's relentless grip.

With a final surge of humanity, Charles transformed into the dreaded worgen, losing all semblance of his former self. His once keen mind was consumed by feral instincts, his body contorted into a monstrous form.

Driven by primal urges, the worgen Charles roamed the streets of Gilneas, his actions shrouded in mystery. No accounts could be recalled of his whereabouts or the events that transpired during his time as a feral beast.

Unbeknownst to the survivors, the bandage Charles had hastily wrapped around his chest remained, a silent testament to his identity. This unseen mark would soon play a crucial role in his fate.

Days turned into weeks as the survivors of Gilneas's downfall began to regroup, their spirits battered but their resolve unbroken. They devised a plan to capture some of the feral worgen, hoping to find a way to control their savage instincts.

When the survivors encountered the bandaged worgen, they recognized the tell-tale sign of their former friend Charles. With cautious determination, they captured him, believing they could help him regain his humanity.

Upon capturing Charles, the survivors administered a partial cure developed by Krennan Aranas, the Royal Chemist of Gilneas. This concoction, while not a complete remedy, allowed the afflicted worgen to maintain a degree of control over their minds, enabling them to follow instructions from the unaffected.

Although the partial cure offered a temporary respite from the curse's relentless grip, the search for a more permanent solution continued. Charles, now able to communicate and cooperate, became an invaluable asset in the survivors' struggle against the curse and the encroaching Forsaken.

Despite the devastation that had befallen their beloved city, the survivors of Gilneas remained resolute, their hope fuelled by the prospect of a brighter future. Charles, once a victim of the curse, now stood as a beacon of resilience and a symbol of their unwavering determination to reclaim their lives.

In the aftermath of Gilneas's fall, the partially cured worgen, upon the orders of Genn Graymane, made their way to Tal'doren, a place of solace and hope amidst the encroaching darkness. It was here that the priestess of Elune awaited them, ready to guide them through a ritual that would grant them control over the beast within.

As Charles and his fellow worgen approached the sacred Well of Fury, Belysra Starbreeze, the wise priestess, spoke in a clear, resonant voice, "Just as Goldrinn's spirit once blessed our druids, let Charles be blessed with the wisdom of his race and the ferocity of the wolf god."

With unwavering faith, Charles drank from the well, the invigorating water coursing through his veins, instilling in him the strength and resilience of his former self. The priestess then led him to the Well of Tranquility, where she implored, "Just as Daral'nir soothes the cursed druids who gave into the beast and abandoned balance, let Tal'doren soothe Charles."

Charles, with a newfound sense of calm, dipped his hands into the well's tranquil waters, feeling a wave of serenity wash over him. The priestess's final words echoed in his mind as he approached the Well of Balance, "Let the Scythe unbind that which was not meant to be bound! Let the soul master the beast, let the beast master the soul."

With a deep breath, Charles partook from the well's essence, feeling a surge of energy course through his body. In that moment, he was no longer just a man or a beast, but a fusion of both, capable of shifting between forms at will. The curse that had once held him captive was now under his control.

As Charles embarked on a journey of self-discovery, he found himself aboard a Kaldorei ship, sailing away from the ruins of Gilneas. The vast expanse of the sea mirrored the turmoil within his heart, a reflection of his transformation and the uncertain path that lay ahead.

Gazing at the distant horizon, Charles contemplated the events that had transpired, his mind grappling with the duality of his existence. He was a worgen, a creature of immense power and primal instincts, yet he was also Charles, a mage with a keen intellect and a compassionate spirit.

The journey ahead would be fraught with challenges, but Charles was determined to embrace his new reality. He would learn to harness the power of the worgen, using it to protect those in need and defend his homeland. He would never forget his humanity, for it was the source of his strength and the guiding light that would illuminate his path.

The sea breeze whispered promises of a brighter future, and Charles, with unwavering resolve, set sail towards the unknown, ready to face whatever trials lay ahead. The curse that had once threatened to consume him now served as a reminder of his resilience and the unwavering spirit that defined him.

### **Year 29 | [44 years old] Refugee to Stormwind (found a new profession)**

Charles, now a partially cured worgen, embarked on his journey to Stormwind City, his mind reeling from the events that had transformed his life. He couldn't fathom how, as a Magus trained by the esteemed mages of Dalaran, he had become a creature of primal instincts and heightened senses.

As the ship sailed across the vast expanse of the sea, Charles sought solace in the solitude of his bunk. Lying on his back, he stared at his hand, once a tool of arcane mastery, now a reminder of his beastly transformation. The curse weighed heavily upon his conscience, a secret he felt compelled to guard.

He resolved to keep his affliction hidden from the world, fearing the stigma and prejudice it might bring. Only those who already knew or possessed the ability to sense it would be privy to his true nature.

Days turned into weeks, and Charles finally reached Stormwind City, a bustling metropolis far removed from the tranquil life he had known in Gilneas. The city's vibrant energy and diverse populace overwhelmed him, a stark contrast to the secluded existence he had endured as a worgen.

His journey to Stormwind brought him back into contact with his old friend, Acton, who had managed to escape the siege of Gilneas and establish himself as an esteemed Professor of Archaeology at the esteemed Stormwind University.

Acton, recognizing Charles's struggles with adapting to the city life, offered him a place to stay until he could get back on his feet. Grateful for his friend's hospitality, Charles spent the next few weeks recuperating and preparing for his new life in Stormwind.

With Acton's support, Charles decided to seek out the Magus of Stormwind University to inquire about potential teaching opportunities. His reputation as a skilled mage, coupled with his unique experiences as a worgen, intrigued the university's leadership.

Charles underwent a rigorous interview process, demonstrating his mastery of arcane magic and sharing his insights on the curse that afflicted him. The university's staff was impressed by his knowledge, composure, and willingness to share his experiences, leading them to offer him a position as a Professor of Arcane Magic.

Charles accepted the position with enthusiasm, eager to share his knowledge and inspire the next generation of mages. Despite the weight of his curse, he was determined to embrace his new life in Stormwind and make a positive impact on the world.

### **Year 31 | (Current)**

Professor Charles had been a tutor at the University for several years, witnessing numerous events unfold in Azeroth while imparting his knowledge to his students. He gradually adapted to the bustling city life and even maintained his role throughout the Pandaren expansion, welcoming the newcomers to Stormwind City. Time marched on, and Charles's life settled into a comfortable routine until the Legion's menacing presence disrupted the tranquillity. Amidst the chaos, Charles learned about Dalaran's reconstruction and encountered the remaining and newly appointed magi who now governed the city. In recognition of his unwavering dedication and ties to Dalaran, Charles was invited to join the esteemed ranks of the Kirin Tor, tasked with aiding in the fight against the Legion.

## Organization history

### Legion Incursion (Arcane Consortium)

It was during the Burning Legion's conquest of Azeroth that Charles Magnussen founded the Arcane Consortium, its Endeavor was to serve as a detective organization that would seek out and find the hidden people/creatures hiding around Azeroth that posed not only a threat to Dalaran but also the Kingdom of Stormwind and its surrounding area.

It was in the Arcane Consortium that Charles first met ex criminal Acheleus Moonblaze and Paladin Akador Salm, during the fight against 'The Eight' in Duskwood, both assist in in Charles mission would play a larger part in his ongoing endeavours.

### **Kirin Tor Intelligence**

With the help of Achelus Moonblaze and Akador Salm, Professor Charles Magnussen founded the Kirin Tor Intelligence from the ashes of the Arcane Consortium to reflect the organizations change in direction, this time with Achelus Moonblaze and Akador Salm as co-directors only to help run the organization in the form of Acheleus's KTI:5 and Akador Salm's KTI:6 spearheading the intelligence-based work it had now followed.

However, for Charles this endeavour was short lived. Due to unforeseen circumstances, Charles was forced to step down as acting Director of the Kirin Tor Intelligence and left Akador and Acheleus in charge in his absence.

### Recently

New missions are immerging.

Gilneas is being reclaimed. It's time to forge bold new beginnings.

## Trivia (IC/OOC)

* Full Name: Charles "Augustus" Magnussen
* Age: 47 (as of start of Shadowlands)
* Height (Human Form): 6'1 / 185cm
* Height (Worgen Form): 7'9 / 213cm
* Languages: Common, (Most other default Alliance languages)
* Favourite Drink: Gilnean Whiskey or coffee depending on the mood
* Partner: N/A
* Previous Partners: **Paula**, Eliza ("Red")
* Professions: Detective / Professor
* Past Affiliation: Vanguard of Eternal Life, Arcane Consortium, Dalaran Intelligence, Kirin Tor Intelligence, The Curators, Royal Court, House Northfold, Court of the Illidari,
* Horde Stance: Neutral
* Blood Relatives: Deceased
* Graymane rebellion side: Graymane
* Primary Schools of Arcane Magic: Abjuration, Transmutation, and Conjuration
* Recently learning: Chronomancy and Illusionary Magic
* Birth Place: Gilneas
* Grew up: Dalaran / Gilneas
* Worgen form control: Full Control
* Residence: Currently Dalaran (previously Gilneas and Stormwind)
* Kirin Tor Licences: D-6, G-5, S-10, H-12
* Acquired Professor Title: Stormwind University (Endorsed by the Kirn Tor)
* Prior Employment: Stormwind University, Gilnean Constabulary, Vanguard of Eternal Life, Dalaran Intelligence, Arcane Consortium, Kirin Tor Intelligence, Gilneas Police Force
* Student of: Dalaran (Before Destruction of Archemonde)
* Gilneas Police Force: Start (Magical referent) Finished as Special Investigator
* Charles never accepted the title of Archmage, as he believed it to be more about stroking one's ego than any functional usage. He always considered he could do as much without such a title.
* Creator of the Gilneas Denizens ADEU WoW-Wiki and Discord

## OOC Information

Charles signature appearance since around 2018.

#### Dispute in KTI IC Founding

Currently there appears to be some dispute about the in-character founding details of the Kirin Tor Intelligence formed in 2020, a role that Charles had a major part in.

It's noted how the three Directors all founded the original iteration of the KTI in 2020.

**Simply, this is incorrect.**

When the Arcane Consortium was re-founded into the Kirin Tor Intelligence, it was agreed that Charles was (and would remain) the sole IC founder, carried on from the Arcane Consortium. Which is well documented by Acheleus and is further proved in responses found in DM's found **HERE**

Any changes to this have not been run by Charles, nor has he agreed to any changes of the sort.

So, from this (**correct**) perspective, Charles shall continue to be noted as the sole IC founder of the Kirin Tor Intelligence. This is a fact that has been proven to and **acknowledged by the Argent Dawn EU Roleplay Discord with 1500+ members** and the **upcoming Gilneas Denizens Discord for the reclaiming of Gilneas**.

#### References/Cites

* Loki image at top edited for use, originally designed/drawn by @Enstatia
* Charles image at top of page by @warmongeringcombatant on Instagram
* Charles self-reflection image by @warmongeringcombatant on Instagram
* Charles art with staff above head, by RubusInBlack
* Loki Image of Charles with Glasses and beard edited for use from Tom Hiddleston's role in Marvel's Loki

#### Further Notes

Recently matters have progressed and Gilneas is now being reclaimed, with this being the case Charles has created this Wiki and a community discord for the proper communication of the guilds and community surrounding Gilneas once it's been rebuilt as a new hub.

> "No seed of hope nor ray of light.
>
>
> Scant succour from the blighted epoch.
> Rise like Socrates and fight;
> Take hate's chalice laced with hemlock.
> Mankind's retrograde ascent;
> We've wagered all for unseen winnings.
>
>
>
> Evolution's youth misspent, It's time to forge bold new-beginnings."
>
> - Skyclad, Antibody Polotic