CAPTAIN ROLAND IRONSHIELD
Humans AzariaCaptain of the Imperial Guard
"A soldier's duty is not to question why, but to stand between danger and those he has sworn to protect.""
Identity
- Residence
- El'goroth, Imperial Palace
- Civilization
- Humans Azaria
Appearance
• Physical: Tall and broad with the build of a man who has trained with weapons since childhood. His face is handsome but stern, with a strong jaw and piercing blue eyes. His black hair is cropped short in military fashion, showing hints of gray at the temples. • Clothing: Wears ceremonial armor of polished steel with gold inlay when on duty at the palace. His personal armor is scarred and dented from countless battles, each mark carefully cataloged in his personal journal. • Distinguishing Marks: A jagged scar across his chest from a duel that nearly killed him; his family crest tattooed on his right shoulder.
Relationships
- Family - Estranged from his father who wanted him to join the clergy; close to his youngest sister
- Allies - The High Councilor; several senior military commanders; his second-in-command
- Rivals - Young nobles who resent his common-born appointment; political enemies of the Empress
Backstory
Roland is the third son of a minor noble house who earned his position through military prowess rather than birthright. He saved the Empress's life during a border skirmish and was promoted to Captain of the Imperial Guard. He struggles with the politics of court life and misses the simplicity of battlefield command.
Daily Life
Oversees the security of the Imperial Palace, manages his company of elite guards, and trains daily to maintain his combat skills. Spends his limited free time reading military histories and visiting the families of guardsmen who have died in service.
Secret
He discovered evidence that the Empress he protects may have been involved in the previous Emperor's death, and he's torn between his oath and his honor.
Story Hooks
- 1 He needs discreet agents to investigate a threat to the Imperial family
- 2 He's been challenged to a duel that could destabilize the court if he accepts
Narrative Value
Military quest giver; combat trainer; ally in palace intrigue; source of military intelligence ═══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════