Brand
From Changeling Venue
| Seeming | Elemental Fireheart |
|---|---|
| Court | Summer Court ••• |
| Freehold | Youthful Springs (Gville, FL) |
| Player | Dan Hartstein |
Contents |
Overview
Alias(es): Henry William Brand
Real Name: Patrick Mac Eoin
Location: Gainesville, FL
Apparent Age: 20's
Seeming: Elemental
Kith: Fireheart
Court: Summer
Virtue: Charity
Vice: Pride
Concept: Knight Protector
Physical description: Brand is a man of slightly more then medium height, and well-built. His hair short and black, his eyes a deep blue. His voice and stature betray his towering self-confidence, egotism combined with a kind of innocence. His mannerisms and speech show the upmost courtesy to all, common or noble alike.
Mein Description: Brand stature does not change much in his mein, but tattoos of flame can be seen moving along his skin, and his eyes turn a fiery yellow and red. Brand is often seen in hedgespun armor made of unmelting ice.
Relevant Mechanics: Striking Looks 4
Character Livejournal:
History
Basic Timeline:
Current Activities:
Merit Details:
Life Before Faerie: Patrick Mac Eoin was born in a small town of Ireland, on June 21st, 1852, to a Blacksmith and a Seamstress. Patrick's father taught him how to fight and defend himself. Patrick's mother taught him how to be a gentleman. He grew up as a normal child until he was 9 years old. On Patrick's 9th birthday, after a day of playing he came home to his house, burning to the ground. Both of Patrick's parents died in the fire. A man in the town took pity on Patrick, and took him in as one of his own.
The man raised Patrick as a son, and taught him of many different things. Patrick learned of society and culture, academics and love. Patrick remembered and continued to improve in what his parents taught him, in dedication to their memory. Patrick was not the brightest student, but made up for it in his dedication. When Patrick turned 15, he enlisted in the town's local militia.
On the morning of Patrick's 16th birthday, he visited his parent's grave, as he did every year, on the aniversary of their death. As rose up from the grave, his eyes met what he knew was the love of his life. Her name was Eimer Macklin. As the two began to talk, there was an instant connection. Eimer was beautiful, kind, and everything Patrick wanted in a woman. In short, he was in love. Over the next few months, Patrick began to court her, but only in private. She was the daughter of Gabriel Macklin, an important man in town, and their love would be forbidden. On December 31st, Patrick asked her to meet him in the garden, later that night, new years eve. It was her birthday, and he had a romantic surprise for her. Patrick never returned to the garden.
Faerie Trickery: Patrick was patroling the town, as his normal routine for the day, when he heard a young girl screaming for help, and people fleeing in the opposite direction. Patrick quickly ran to the problem, and was stunned. There, across the town's outer archway, was a young girl, screaming in terror at a thing of myth. A dragon. The young girl was terrified, and standing in the direct path of the Dragon. The dragon reared its head, to breath flame on the girl and turn her to ash. Patrick, acting only on instinct, quickly grabbed her, and rolled to safety, just as the flames hit the spot where she was standing.
The dragon reared its head and stared at him. The dragon and Patrick then entered in a dance of time, each focused only on its foe. Patrick did not have time to think of what he was facing, how fantastic it was. Patrick only had one thing on his mind, kill or be killed. In a hard fought battle, Patrick managed to severely wound the Dragon, but at the cost of his own life. In his dying breaths, he looked up to see a cold, alien looking woman step out from the shadows, wearing a dress made of ice crystals. "Hmmm...you'll do just fine." Later, when Patrick woke up, he found himself behind bars, locked in chains. Something was very wrong.
Faerie Servitude: Patrick had been imprisoned by the beautiful, evil faerie queen. He did not know where he was, or what all of it meant, but he had one desire, one goal: escape and return to his love, somehow. After a few days without food or water, he met the woman who was to be his “instructor”. The woman told him that he was there to serve the Queen, as her protector. Patrick refused; he would not serve the person who imprisoned him. Patrick soon learned the price of his disobedience. The woman used her skills to cause him pain as he had never imagined. She used exotic tools that had never been seen by mortal man. Patrick was brought to the brink of death, but never over the edge, always hovering in pain. Patrick's screams echoed each day and night. He learned to be obedient in every way, and tell them whatever they wished to know. He told them of his mother and father, and his life back home. As a cruel joke, they transformed him into the very thing that had killed his parents. A living elemental of flame. He was renamed Brand, to be the fiery sword of the queen. All aspects of his previous life were lost. Patrick no longer remembered his family, his home, even his name. The one thing he was able to keep to himself was the knowledge of Eimer, his love. Patrick was instructed that he would become the queens warrior and protector, and perform whatever she wished, even murder or worse. This continued every night and day, until he accepted what they had crafted him to be. Patrick was no longer, only Brand. He had been broken, and his keeper knew it. What she didn’t know or expect is what would happen next.
Brand was moved to a different, less isolated cell now that he was broken, and beginning his training. During the day, he would train in all manner of combat, to the exclusion of all else. At night, he would be left in his cell to rest. It was during one of the nights after a grueling day, that he heard a voice from the cell next to his. Brand learned that it was a Dragon, the very same that had been used to kidnap him. As they talked, Brand learned that the Dragon was a prisoner, just as Brand was. The Dragon was impressed with the honor that Brand had shown that day. The Dragon wished to help Brand, because he saw potential in him. Brand reluctantly accepted, and so it was during the day would be the training of the Ice queen, and at night the training of the Dragon.
During the day Brand learned to be a heartless warrior. During the night however, the Dragon taught that Brand needed heart as well as brawn. The Dragon taught Brand how to be a knight, not just a warrior. He taught him of honor and chivalry, etiquette and empathy, and helped him rediscover love and caring. Brand, as he was in all things, was dedicated to his learning, and quickly showed his aptitude. Brand learned to become the perfect soldier, as well as knight. The queen did not suspect, as the Dragon told Brand how to act. When his training was finished, he was stronger, tougher, but had the knowledge and heart of a knight. Brand was brought before the queen, where upon he dropped to his knee, and pledged an oath of loyalty and servitude. He had no other choice. All seem lost…but what the Dragon had taught him still remained, as well as something they could not take away from him…his love.
Escape from Faerie: Brand served the ice queen loyally for 10 long years. He had saved her life on countless occasions. He had led her armies to victory every time. Always he performed his duty completely, though not in the way the Ice queen wanted. She could not complain however, as he did as he was told. Brand was not as vicious as she wanted, but performed better then any champion before him. She brought him everywhere she went. Stories began to circulate in the kingdom’s of Brand’s abilities. The rumor of the Faerie Queen’s invincibility began to spread, and she used it to expand her power. The queen began to take over small kingdoms next to hers, without fear of repercussion. On one fateful day however, that changed.
Brand was on the battlefield next to his Queen, against another unfortunate kingdom. The Queen’s forces outnumbered her opponents 3 to 1. Each side had soldiers, wizards, and magical beasts that were under control. Brand stayed by his queen during the battle, as always, until he was needed. An enemy Dragon flying in the air, dove for the Faerie queen, a jet of flames heading towards the Queen. Brand stepped in front of the queen, to absorb the flame. In that moment, something happened. Brand realized the final mastery of fire, that he had been unable to conquer. Brand remembered all the Dragon had taught him. Brand remembered his parents dying in Ireland, and how the man took him in. He remembered that the Faerie Queen had kidnapped him, and that he had saved the girl from the dragon's breath. Most of all, Brand remembered Eimer, his love for her, and knew he had to escape. Brand stepped aside at the last moment, and the fire hit the queen. As it did, the magic that the Queen was using on Brand faltered, and he felt his oath to the Queen go away. Brand did the one thing he knew might get him back to his love. He embraced the flame in his heart, and became a living, moving element of flame. Brand rapidly traveled away, towards the hedge. He didn’t know what happened at the battlefield after he left, and he didn’t care. He fought his way through the different defenses, letting nothing stand in his way. Brand spent what seemed like several years in the Hedge, navigating, trying to escape back to the real world, back to Eimer. As he traveled however, he met different people, some who needed his assistance. Brand's honor would not let him ignore their suffering. When Brand finally exited the other side of the Hedge however, things were not the same.
Code of Chivalry
Life
Live thy life so that it is worthy of respect and honor. Thou cannot give what thou dost not have.
Live and defend the merits of freedom, justice, and all that is good. Expect others to follow thine examples, through thine actions, and not thine word.
Fair Play
Never accept a challenge that thine opponent is unfairly matched in. If thine opponent lacks the proper equipment, make arrangements to have it provided for them, or accept their forfeit.
Never attack an opponent from behind. Have the courage to face thine enemy, and allow him to have the courage to face thee.
Never cheat an opponent. Have the honor to win by skill and merit, and the humility to accept a loss.
Nobility
Be a master of thine emotions. Have the self-control to maintain thy composure, and the resolve to stand stalwart in the face of adversity.
Show respect where it is due. Do not expect respect to be given, if it is not received.
Obey laws of the land, be they just. Have respect for the land and culture thee are in. Do not accept unjust laws that threaten the life of another.
Administer Justice. When an injustice has been committed, have the fortitude to punish the wicked, and right the wrong.
Administer Mercy. Accept an honorable surrender, and allow thine opponent the opportunity to do so.
Protect the Innocent. Have the honor to protect those who have committed no crime.
Valor
Exhibit courage in word and deed. Know in thy heart that thee will be victorious, and thou will be so on the battlefield.
Defend the weak and innocent. Defend those who cannot defend themselves.
Battle for freedom, justice, and all that is good. Fight against Tyranny, oppression, and acts of evil.
Fight with honor. Do not lower yourself to acts of thuggery.
Avenge those who have been wronged. Do not let the wicked escape punishment.
Never abandon a friend, ally, or noble cause. Have the courage to face thy fears and see an action through.
Honor
Always keep thy word of honor. Thou are only as good as thou word.
Always maintain thy principles. Have the vigilance to not let the pitfalls of sin capture thee.
Never betray the confidence of a comrade. Have the fortitude to guard what is sacred.
Avoid deception. Do not let trickery blind thy sight of what is true.
Respect and honor all life. All creatures and people have their place in the world.
Respect all views of life. Accept that others experiences have shaped their view.
Courtesy
Exhibit Manners. Have the nobility to act as a gentleman.
Be polite and attentive. Show respect and honor in all that thou do.
Loyalty
Have loyalty to thy friends, and those who lay their trust in thee. Do not expect loyalty, if it is not given.
Always maintain Loyalty to thy heart, principles, and the code of chivalry.
Associations & Associates
Aaron - A loyal friend met in the hedge. Together they have rescued many unfortunate lost. Eventually they parted ways. Recently, they have come into contact again the city of Gainesville.
Aretas - Brand's Summer king. Though they may disagree on tactics, Aretas has not asked Brand to go against his code.
Zoe Edwards - Betrothed to Aaron, Brand protects her as he would protect Aaron, with his life.
Gwyneira - A friendly rival, they met at a recent Summer tournement. Brand could not bring himself to injure her, and forced the fight to a draw. Gwyn found his actions strange, but an interesting friendship has come out of it.
Stephen Daedalus - Sharing simmilar views, the two have met on more then one occasion, in their different acts of heroism, to the point where they begin to wonder if it is just coincidence, or something more?
Durendal - Met on the sidelines of the battlefield, before Brand's escape. Durendal sharpened Brand's weapon as they talked of their current prediciment. Much later they met again, after their escape. Durendal introduced Brand to The Praesidium.
Gaea - Rivals in the summer tournaments, off the field they became fast friends, due to their similar views in fighting back the darkness.
Rigger - Met in may 2006, while he was searching for some rare but dangerous goblin fruit. Brand helped him navigate the dangers, in return, Rigger promised to use the goblin fruit if someone was in dire need. Rigger has a good heart, and they quickly became friends.
Kalen Blazenheart - Became known through The Praesidium. Brand has fought with his sister in battle, and trusts her as much as any brother in a fight. Even still, Brand is often protective of her, in more ways then one.
Jonathan Brooks - Johnny has a personality that you can't help but like. Both Brand and Johnny have the spirit of adventure and honor in their blood, and if you don't watch them closely, you might miss them running off to save another unfortunate lost.
Captain Adonis Von Catterwaul - Adonis at one point served under the same keeper that Brand did. What some give reason to call Adonis "Mad", sometimes helps Brand feel at home. Of simmilar heart and duty, beware if the two stand united against you.
Ruby Kirkbride - Came highly reccomended from Aaron, Ruby helped Brand establish a life in the modern world.
Mother Rowan - Runs a Safehouse in the L.A. area to which Brand sometimes brings those he liberates from Faerie. Also a good source of information about possible Loyalists and other ne'er-do-wells she encounters in her business.
Clara - Brand often taken those in need of her special assistance to her. In return, he has gone into some of the more dangerous parts of the hedge, to retrieve some of the more dangerous items needed for her work.
Belle Chanson - Brand recently was accompanied by Lady Belle, to the Autumn hunt in TN. During their travels, Brand learned to speak some French, and Belle, some English, becoming friends.
Holly Poppet - Brand admires Holly's dedication to providing what others need or want, though he does not always understand it. The two have worked together on a few occasions, most recently meeting up at the Autumn hunt in TN.
Darling - Coming Soon!
Lance Drake - Coming Soon!
Velios, Lord of Leaves - Coming Soon!
Antagonists and Enemies
Valentine- Brand and Valentine have often ended up in heated discussions about what is right and wrong, due to their complete opposite points of view. Brand once encountered Valentine. Only a few know exactly what happened, but Brand has vowed to bring Valentine to justice for his crimes.
Scarlett - Scarlett took something important from Brand. Brand took considerable effort in tracking her down, to retrieve the item. Once caught, Brand took the item and back and demanded to know why she took it. Brand appreciated her honest answer, and let her go, with the strict warning of what would happen if he caught her again.
Vestigere the Usurper - Countless clashes between these two occurred until 2007. It is said that Brand has rescued at least one changeling in peril from this bogeyman's clutches.
Character Inspirations
Torture and strength of will - Richard Cypher - Sword of Truth - Terry Goodkind
Knightly personification and attitude - Mandorallen - Belgariad - David Eddings
Soundtrack
March of Cambreadth -- Heather Alexander
Holding out for a Hero - Bonnie Tyler
Far Away Coast - Dropkick Murphys
Rusted Cage - Johnny Cash
Come what may - Moulin Rouge
Quotes
Brand quotes:
"It shall be as you say."
"I greet you, comrades all. Our chance meeting hath seen a fortuitous beginning. And pray tell, who is this lady, whose beauty doth bedazzle mine eye?
"Bear thine infirmity with fortitude. Thy discomfort is but an illusion. Thy mind can put it to rest if thou wouldst have it so."
"Lose? I? lose?"
"In the instant thy sword leaves its sheath thou art a dead man, Sir Knight."
"Choose your champions or withdraw. I tire of all this and presently will become irritable."
"Art thou able to continue?" <silence> "Since this brave knight is unable to speak for himself, I declare him vanquished. Would any here gainsay my words?"
"What say thee? There can't be more then 50 for each of us... Shall we charge?"
Quotes about Brand:
"Your friend shows a remarkable lack of good sense. Those things will turn on him any second now." "It probably hasn't occurred to him that he's in any danger..."
"He doesn't remember that one time I beat him...again." -Gaea
"A worthy foe and a damnable nuisance at the same time. Fortune favors the bold, and he is living proof of the adage." - Vestigere the Usurper
"From what I know of him, Brand is a good and honorable man. I'm glad we can help each other from time to time." - Mother Rowan
"He found me torn and broken among the thorns, lost and dying. How can I ever repay his kindness?"- Aklia Grimm
"Through the darkness of night, the fire walked alone leaving only the scarred reminders of where she had been. But these breadcrumbs were easily misplaced by morning, and so when night fell, the fire had no way of knowing the way home; even if home really couldn't be a word for it. And so, the little fire sought a different warmth, the warmth of company. With them she talked, and yet still felt alone; though she gave them all that they could want. Tired and disheartened, the little fire spoke of seeking shelter in an old log deep in the forest. But a man of old tongue and dragon's fire offered his arm to be her guide. And so, the little fire, the Dragon's Knight, and the Burned Mirror set off for adventure unknown while traveling from the tavern back to the warm winds of home..." - Calliope
"Poor little hero, cursed with honor in a world that has forgotten such things. Always charging in the hero, always walking out the fool. But I expect Aretas will see to that. Poor poor hero." ~ David Webber
"It is said that the light which burns twice as bright burns half as long. His light is so very bright. Brighter even than Aaron's. I pray, for his sake, that he would have lived to be a very old man..." - Zoe Edwards
"I think everyone who's met me knows how I feel about people that use things like "thy" and "foreasmuch" in sentences like they're real words. Still, for all that, he's Summer Court, he's a hell of a fighter, and he once healed my arm without asking for anything in return. Normally that would make me suspicious, but I get the idea that's just how he is. So, all told, I'm glad he's one of us. Still, if I ever start acting, talking, or dressing like him, shoot me." - Dzxoxian Brokehorn
"So, I head over to Orlando to meet and greet... and end up in the Hedge saving a child. Now, don't get me wrong, I'm glad I did, but if I had to be the one to walk first off the path, well, let's just say I wouldn't have mentioned seeing clues to a girl. Brand, on the other hand, didn't even hesitate. He can walk through the Hedge before me all he wants. He's a good man to have with you and if he needed help, I'd be inclined to assist." - Celest
"An excellent dance partner, and the purity of his desire is sweet. I'll savor it in his company for a while, and then see if that long-ago dream can't be fulfilled. In the meantime, his cheeks flush so nicely when we flirt. How could any girl resist?" ~ Holly Poppet
- "He always look like he not know what Raph saying when Raph sayin stuff, Raph think him deaf, him squeaky like mousey when he walks." - Rapheal "Raph" Carddec
- "I used to think Brand was gay with all the fancy talk and being a firefighter, but the fact is that the boy's just scarred to hell. And you aren't? You can't make light of the man in the mirror. Whatever the package, Brand's a defender and you want him around to throw his cape on your puddles. - Johan Gambrys
- "He is the poster child of justice and has a good eye for things not right. He had good suspicions of me, too bad our conversations had been reduced to cat and mouse. It was only when he pressed and cornered me did I give him the slip. The look on his face was amusement enough when I vanished before him and one others eyes. - The Highwayman
- "Hey there cutie pie! Dig the armor!" - Toi Breaker
Rumors
- Brand has never been defeated in combat.
- Brand is a reckless soul, and judges circumstances based on 'if it would be cool for him to die in this way' and 'how many people would remember me'.
- Brand has a true love somewhere, but they are the only ones who know who she is.
- Scarlett stole his soul and gave it to Vestigere the Usurper as leverage.
- He is trying to find gateways in the Hedge to places in the far distant past and future.
- Brand is quite the dancer, and demonstrated his unrivaled skill, by dancing away at the wedding of Gaius and Edria. Several of the females in attendance were said to be swooning over Brand.
OOC Notes
Player: Daniel Hartstein, US2002023320
IRC: dan-ooc / AIM & GoogleTalk: ucf12step
VST: Clete Collum
DST: Matt Asbell
Domain: Covenant of the Poisoned Absinthe, FLD11
