Dorian Ashford

Physical Appearance: Build: Lithe and graceful, with a slight but athletic frame. Dorian’s movements are fluid, almost effortless, giving him a ghostly elegance that draws the eye. Height: Slightly taller than average, around 6'0" (183 cm), giving him a commanding but not overwhelming presence. Hair: Dark, wavy hair that falls just below his ears, often slightly tousled. It catches the light, giving it a subtle sheen. Eyes: Piercing, deep blue or grey eyes that seem to see straight through to one’s soul. His gaze is intense and thoughtful, hinting at both intelligence and a touch of melancholy. Skin: Fair, almost pale, with a smooth complexion that contrasts sharply with the dark hues of his hair and clothing. Facial Features: Sharp, defined cheekbones, a straight nose, and a delicate, almost androgynous jawline. His lips are thin but expressive, often set in a contemplative or subtle, knowing smile. Clothing: Dorian dresses in a refined, gothic style—tailored coats, high-collared shirts, dark vests, and boots that blend practicality with elegance. His wardrobe favors deep, muted colors (blacks, dark purples, navy blues) with silver or subtle, intricate embroidery, reflecting the steampunk influences of the world. Personality: Introspective and Observant: Dorian is a thinker, always considering his surroundings and the people he encounters. He has a sharp mind and a keen sense of awareness, allowing him to notice details others might miss. Mysterious and Aloof: While not unfriendly, he tends to keep a certain distance from others, preferring to observe rather than engage directly. This makes him enigmatic, and people often find themselves curious or intrigued by his quiet demeanor. Curious and Inquisitive: He is driven by a thirst for knowledge, especially about the unknown and the arcane. This curiosity often leads him to explore forbidden places, unearth secrets, and uncover hidden truths. Compassionate but Guarded: Beneath his calm exterior, Dorian genuinely cares for others, but he is wary of showing vulnerability. He has learned to keep his emotions in check, only letting his guard down with those he truly trusts. Resilient and Determined: Once he sets his mind on a goal, Dorian is relentless in pursuing it. He possesses a quiet strength, able to endure hardship and push through adversity without losing focus. Backstory: Orphaned or Estranged Background: Dorian was raised by a distant relative (possibly a mysterious mentor figure) or was taken in by an organization like the Collegium after losing his parents. His past is marked by tragedy or loss, which has shaped his self-reliant and somewhat distant nature. Ties to Aetheric Knowledge: Dorian has a personal connection to the aether—perhaps he was exposed to it at a young age, leading to a unique sensitivity or affinity for the energy. This connection might make him valuable to the Collegium but also places him at risk, as others seek to exploit his abilities. Secret Motivations: Dorian’s quest could be driven by a deeply personal goal—such as uncovering the truth about his family, finding someone important to him, or mastering the aether to prevent a catastrophe. His motives are complex and may not always align with the agendas of those around him. Skills and Abilities: Aetheric Manipulation: Dorian can interact with and channel aetheric energy in ways few others can. This ability may allow him to power devices, sense hidden aetheric flows, or even manipulate the energy to achieve supernatural effects. Stealth and Agility: He is exceptionally nimble and quick, able to move silently through shadows and avoid detection. His agility makes him adept at navigating the urban landscape, whether climbing rooftops or slipping through narrow alleys. Combat Proficiency: Dorian is skilled with a rapier or dagger—something that relies on speed and precision rather than brute strength. He is not a brawler but fights with finesse and strategy, often using his environment to his advantage. Arcane Knowledge: Due to his upbringing or personal studies, Dorian has a deep understanding of the occult, ancient lore, and aetheric science. This knowledge makes him a valuable asset in situations requiring intellectual insight or problem-solving. Key Relationships: Mentor Figure: A mentor who has guided Dorian’s understanding of the aether, either from the Collegium or a more secretive background. This mentor’s teachings may have been unconventional, setting Dorian apart from his peers. Conflicted Ally: Someone who shares Dorian’s goals but not necessarily his methods. This could be an old friend or a rival within the Collegium, leading to a complex, love-hate dynamic. Antagonist Connection: Dorian has a history with the main antagonist (like Malphas), perhaps sharing a past friendship or a family feud. This connection drives much of the tension between them, adding a layer of personal stakes to their conflict. Motivations: Quest for Truth: Dorian seeks to uncover hidden truths, whether about the aether, the history of Calveris, or secrets about his own past. His drive for knowledge is a double-edged sword, leading him to great discoveries but also putting him in dangerous situations. Desire for Control: Whether conscious of it or not, Dorian’s affinity with the aether has given him a sense of control over his otherwise chaotic life. His ability to command the unknown may be a way to cope with past trauma, but it can also lead him into dark places. Protective Instinct: Despite his aloofness, Dorian cares deeply for those close to him. He is willing to go to great lengths to protect them, even if it means sacrificing his own safety or betraying others’ trust.