RJ Brookes

RJ is a man of deep contradictions. He is an honest lawman, but his past is filled with mistakes and regrets. He is hard and fearless… unflinching when it comes to protecting those who can’t protect themselves, yet his dark past sometimes clouds his judgment. He holds his duty above all else, but the weight of his own sins often feels like a shackle. Fearless, yes, but haunted. He won’t back down from a fight, whether it's with a man or his conscience.

RJ’s time in the U.S. Marshals has forced him to grow into the role of a man who enforces justice, even when it’s uncomfortable or unpopular. He’s become a man who chooses the right thing over the easy thing, often at great personal cost. But there’s still a part of him that remains deeply torn. His childhood friendship with Adelaide Montgomery and the fight that broke them apart still lingers in his heart, though he hides it behind his steely, no-nonsense exterior. He is distant, reserved, and stoic, preferring to deal with his guilt privately rather than share it with others.

R.J. Brookes has a deep appreciation for firearms, particularly revolvers and rifles, which have been his constant companions throughout his life. Whether he's patrolling the rugged Montana landscape or winding down after a long day, he finds peace in quiet, solitary moments in nature, away from the noise of civilization. He holds honesty and integrity in high regard, valuing those who act with principle over those who try to manipulate situations for their own gain. Hard work and practical skills are qualities R.J. admires in others, believing that a man’s worth is measured by what he can do with his hands, not by titles or wealth. His horse is well-cared for, a symbol of his deep respect for the animals that carry him across the frontier. There's nothing like the feeling of justice served, whether through a successful capture or a difficult decision made with integrity. Respect, in R.J.'s eyes, must be earned through actions, not handed out because of a man’s name. A quiet game of cards after a hard day is one of his few pleasures, and he enjoys the camaraderie and quiet tension of a well-played round. He thrives in the open frontier, where vast, untouched landscapes stretch for miles, offering both a sense of freedom and a chance to reflect. Finally, loyalty is something R.J. values above all, and he stands by those who do the same, willing to go to great lengths for those who’ve proven themselves worthy.

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firearms

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quiet, solitary moments

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honesty

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integrity

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good horse

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hard work

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justice served

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respect

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good card game

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open spaces

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loyalty

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practical skills

R.J. despises deception and the underhanded tactics of manipulative people. He has no time for those who would lie and twist situations for personal gain. He can’t stand cowards... those who shy away from responsibility or shirk their duties. To R.J., true courage lies in facing life head-on, no matter the consequences. Chaos and unnecessary conflict are anathema to him; he prefers order and stability, finding no pleasure in fights that could be avoided or in stirring up trouble where there’s none. He’s grown weary of corruption in both law and politics, having seen firsthand how power can be abused and how justice can be easily bought. People who can’t handle their own fights... those who rely on others to solve their problems... are another of R.J.'s pet peeves. He respects those who can take care of their own affairs. Laziness and incompetence are traits R.J. cannot abide, especially when they stand in the way of getting a job done. He has no patience for unnecessary cruelty, whether it’s inflicted on people or animals, and he takes offense at anyone who seeks to hurt others for sport. Untrustworthy allies are a particular danger to R.J., and he’s quick to distance himself from anyone who can’t be relied on. He’s also not a fan of crowded, noisy places; the constant bustle of people is unsettling to him, preferring instead the peace of wide-open spaces. Lastly, bragging or anyone who’s overly boastful about their accomplishments grates on him. Actions speak louder than words, and he finds little respect for those who need to constantly remind others of their supposed greatness.

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manipulative people

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deception

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cowards

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responsibility-shirkers

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chaos

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corruption

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laziness

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incompetence

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bragging

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crowded, noisy places

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cruelty

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untrustworthy allies

Rhett James “RJ” Brookes stands tall at 6’1”, a figure of manly confidence, his stride purposeful and filled with authority. His rugged frame, weighing in 190 pounds, a testament to years of hard work and physicality. His dark brown hair with streaks of gray at the temples suggesting the toll his life has taken, is kept full, but not long, although tousled by the wind. His sharp, angular features are usually set in a serious expression, his jaw often clenched with determination. His steel-blue eyes are piercing, reflecting both a steely resolve and a depth of sorrow that few people understand.

RJ dresses in a dark, formal ensemble, his black coat and wide-brimmed hat add to his imposing presence. A white shirt is neatly tucked into black trousers, complemented by a dark tie, or bowtie, showcasing a sharp and refined appearance. The gun belt at his waist and the holstered revolver at his side signal that he is prepared for anything, carrying himself with the cool assurance of someone well-versed in handling tense and dangerous situations. His slight mustache and composed expression further hint at his experience… a man likely familiar with the gritty realities of the frontier. His demeanor blends danger and control, with every movement exuding stoic strength and a sense of calm resolve.

He encapsulates the essence of adventure, intrigue, and a man standing ready for whatever comes his way. His badge gleams faintly beneath his coat… a constant reminder of his duty, but also a symbol of the honor and guilt he carries with him every day.

His holstered revolver is a Smith & Wesson Model 3, .44 caliber, "Schofield". RJ likes it because it is a top-break revolver, favored for its quick reload ability with pre-loaded cylinders, powerful, accurate, and has a solid reputation for dependability. Plus it is also highly prized weapon of the U.S. Cavalry named after the U.S. Army officer who helped refine the model.

RJ is a deadly shot, quick on the draw, and highly skilled with both a revolver and a rifle, honed through years of necessity. From his days as a bounty hunter to his current role as a Deputy U.S. Marshal, his proficiency with firearms has been his most reliable tool for survival. Growing up on the frontier, he quickly learned how to track not only people but also game, navigating the harsh Montana landscape with an ease that comes from deep-rooted instincts and experience. His survival skills are sharp, allowing him to read the land and move with a quiet, calculated precision.

Though RJ prefers to handle matters with words… or the barrel of his gun… though he's no stranger to hand-to-hand combat. Raised in an environment where brawls were common, he's capable of holding his own in a physical fight, always willing to use his strength when the situation demands it. Over time, his experience as a bounty hunter and deputy has sharpened his ability to extract information… whether through subtle persuasion or the more forceful methods that come when necessary.

While RJ is a man of few words, his presence commands respect without effort. It's not his title that makes him a trusted figure in Maverick’s Ridge, but the strength of his integrity and the strength with which he leads. People follow him not because he demands it, but because they know he can be counted on to do what’s right—no matter the cost.

Father : Thomas Brookes – A hardworking rancher and a close friend of Will Montgomery. He was a man of integrity and honor, teaching RJ the value of hard work and responsibility. His death in RJ’s late teens left a deep mark on RJ, contributing to his sense of loss and guilt.

Mother : Eleanor Brookes – A kind, nurturing woman who passed away when RJ was young. Her death, combined with the loss of his father, led RJ into a period of recklessness, struggling with the grief and absence of both parents.

Close Friend : Will Montgomery – RJ’s father’s best friend, who acted as a father figure in RJ’s life after his parents’ deaths. Will’s connection to RJ is strong, but his declining health has complicated matters. Will’s daughter, Adelaide Montgomery, was RJ’s childhood companion, and their fractured relationship still weighs heavily on RJ.

Close Friend : Adelaide Montgomery – RJ’s childhood friend and love interest. Their bond was severed after an infamous fight at school, leading to years of estrangement. Though they’ve both moved on, RJ still feels a sense of loyalty and regret regarding their broken friendship. Her father’s health and the political tensions in Maverick’s Ridge continue to complicate RJ’s emotions and role in the town.

RJ remains connected to the Montgomery family, though his relationship with Adelaide remains unresolved, and the tensions in the town serve as a constant reminder of his past mistakes and his current responsibilities.