My name is Vander. I was named for my grandfather Sir Vandric Alverin, a famous warrior and leader of men. I come from a long line of accomplished knights, and hope to continue that tradition.
I stand six feet tall and have already spent many hours in the training yard, making my body lean and hard. I am told that I am the spitting image of my father, with the same pale blue eyes, thick, black hair, aquiline nose and lantern jaw. The only thing missing is the beard, which I've already started to grow.
I began my martial training when I was barely old enough to walk. My father and his men taught me to ride, to shoot, and how to wield a sword. Not all of my education took place in the training yard. Mother also insisted I learn letters and sums, as well as the practical skills I would need to manage our estate. I also learned the history of our clan; the great battles we fought, the fortunes we built and lost, and the kings we served and fought against.
As I said, I come from a long line of knights. They were men who valued honor and justice, and fought hard to maintain order and stability. I want the same thing. My father taught me that without law and order there can be no safety and happiness. Magic and prayers are inspiring to be sure, but strong leaders and wise councilors are the best defense against evil.
I want to honor my ancestors. I want to lead men in battle and help build a safer and more stable kingdom. Ill do that by serving as a sheriff, a marshal, or even a mercenary captain if I must, but I know that I must have greater ambitions if I am to truly make the kingdom safer. I hope I make my father proud.
Advisor Description
Harwin had served Vanders father for years. He was a big man, with broad shoulders, gnarled fists and a face seamed with old scars. He was a terror on the battlefield, but surprisingly cool and collected off of it. Though he had almost no formal education, Harwin was far cleverer than his brutish appearance would suggest. He was especially good at reading other people and figuring out how to motivate them. Like most old soldiers, he also had a nose for danger.
Vanders father quickly recognized Harwin as a good and loyal man, who was able to command the respect of his fellow soldiers and quickly promoted him to sergeant in his personal guards. When Vanders father died, Harwin took it upon himself to look out for his fallen lords son.
When Harwin finally caught up with Vander at the tavern, he hugged him so tight that Vander feared his ribs would break. Still, he was happy to learn that the old sergeant was still alive and here in the Town. It was good to have someone so capable watching out for him.
Reflections on your mother
Mother loved me, but she was always a fretful woman, who became downright paranoid as time passed. When father was away on campaigns she worried constantly, sure that he would never return. She feared that I would follow the same path, and did her best to dissuade me.
What she couldn't understand was that sometimes we have to fight to make the world safe. If we ignore evil for too long, it eventually shows up at our door.
She hoped that I would become a monk, a scholar, a merchant, anything but a soldier. You think she would have gotten used to disappointment.
Vander was a man of great ambition, but little ability. He fought bravely, but not ably. His deeds were dramatic, but not impactful.
In all honesty, he dreamed of being a warrior like his father, but was unable to secure meaningful employment or accumulate the wealth needed to meet his ambitions. He was only in the Town for a few days, and made few friends, but hopefully those he did make will not forget him. Rest in peace Vander, It seems that you weren't ready for this world.