Derren Firebrand

Name: Derren Surgarde,
aka Derren Firebrand, aka Derren the Flamestrike, aka Derren the Burning Fist

Age: 30s-ish Race: Human, Anglo-Norman Height: 6′ Weight: Healthy

Sex: Male Hair: Reddish-brown Eyes: Grey-blue Handedness: Left *

Preferred weapon: Yes. (but really likes axes)
Elemental affinity: Lightning/electricity
Languages spoken: English**, French, Latin^†
Preferred steed: His trusty reindeer, Samson, whom he bought from a Norseman who'd been to this place called Vinland.

* Ambidextrous from practice, but prefers left naturally.
** Or the local "Common" tongue, depending on setting.
^† Or the local "Ancient" tongue analogous to Latin in the setting.

Eldest son of a prominent family, Derren spent his youth being forcefully educated in book knowledge, and less-forcefully in martial knowledge. From an early age, he showed aptitude in the art of combat, and won many melee fights at yearly tournaments. Less-advertised (especially by his family) were his abilities in elemental manipulation, the ability to channel lightning through his limbs and weapons. He earned the epithet "Burning fist" when a punch during a bar brawl left his opponent with a scorched face. Of course, it is generally known that Derren is a spellsword, using elemental magic along with his weapons; he prefers not to use it unless necessary, however, and often makes sure the results look more like the effects of fire rather than electricity. Why? Well, if someone is to go up against a man called Flamestrike or Firebrand, or some other name like that, they may decide to bring water magic into it. Imagine their shock when they realize their mistake.

Derren is definitely more fond of physical activity than intellectual pursuits, but he is well-read and does enjoy (now and again) sitting back with a book. In private, that is. In public, he is most often found at taverns and public houses, competing at darts or draughts or arm wrestling. Or drinking. While he rarely drinks to excess, Derren is known to have a high tolerance for alcohol. Possibly due to his shocking elemental abilities. Is he popular with the ladies? Quite possibly definitely, though none have yet managed to tie him down. In fact, while he has many friends and acquaintances, Derren has surprisingly few truly close relationships, preferring to keep much of himself to himself. Outwardly, he is a genial, charismatic, and good-humored man, but who knows what goes on inside his heart?

Having either too much or too little to do at home (or perhaps simply seeking a change of pace), Derren one day decided to travel abroad to seek what adventure may be found.