Azernathy
Criminal Mastermind and Charitable Philanthropist
Azernathy Brüd (a.k.a. Master of Numbers, Lord of Shadows)
Among the many enigmatic figures in Rolara’s storied past, Azernathy Brüd stands apart—a man wrapped in mystery, whose polished demeanor hides a far more intricate and dangerous nature. His outward charm, seemingly effortless and genuine, serves as little more than a distraction from a mind that operates on a ruthless calculus of self-interest. For Brüd, moral philosophy is not grounded in universal truths but shaped by the shifting terrain of his own ambitions. To him, people are not individuals with intrinsic value, but tools—mere variables in an equation that leads to a singular goal: increasing his power, both arcane and temporal.
His motivations are intricate, driven by a relentless desire for control, validation, and the perpetuation of his own sense of grandeur. Happiness and balance hold no allure for Brüd; his ambitions stretch far beyond the reach of such fleeting concepts. Through his sprawling financial empire—an elaborate mix of philanthropic facades and darker ventures—Brüd reflects his dual nature. His investments range from arcane studies, including forays into necromancy, to infernal dealings where contracts are crafted with a precision matched only by his business acumen. Each move, every connection, is a calculated piece of a greater design, a mosaic of power that he shapes to suit his vision.
From a distance, the full picture of Azernathy Brüd emerges—an individual who will stop at nothing to achieve his goals, indifferent to the cost others may bear along the way. His life, a study in ambition without restraint, serves as a stark reminder of the potential darkness within humanity, challenging any notions of simple morality or the limits of Human ambition. In Brüd, Rolara finds a figure whose story forces a deeper reflection on the nature of power and the complexities of the human soul.
Physical Description
General Physical Condition
Azernathy Brüd presents an outward appearance that is deliberately unremarkable, a calculated choice that serves to divert attention away from his malevolent pursuits. Clothed in garments of muted colors—often a blend of earthy browns and subdued grays—his attire is meticulously tailored yet devoid of ostentation, blending seamlessly into the scholarly milieu of Tatharia Capitolina. His features are equally nondescript: a face framed by neatly trimmed dark hair and eyes of an unmemorable hazel. His demeanor radiates a studied, almost academic, form of politeness, all conspiring to make him easily overlooked in a crowd.
Mental characteristics
Personal history
Early Life and Family
Azernathy Brüd was born into a family that was the epitome of Tatharian decency and compassion. His parents were known for their open-door policy, often welcoming travelers and those in need into their home, providing food, shelter, and warmth. This generosity left a lasting impression on Azernathy during his formative years. His father, a merchant of modest means but abundant love, was a pillar of affection and moral guidance. He would often spend his evenings reading stories to Azernathy and his siblings, using these tales to impart lessons on integrity, kindness, and the importance of helping others, even when it wasn't convenient. His mother, a socialite known for her philanthropic endeavors, was a beacon of kindness and grace. Azernathy had siblings who were supportive and nurturing, often helping him with his studies and encouraging his interests, fostering an environment that would have led most individuals down a path of righteousness. In a city where the benevolent Lugal Icaghor had made Healing freely accessible to all, Azernathy's upbringing was, by all accounts, idyllic.The Laboratorium and Intellectual Ascendancy
From a young age, Azernathy displayed an uncanny aptitude for numbers and logical reasoning. His talents were quickly recognized by the instructors at the Laboratorium, Tatharia Capitolina's esteemed institution of learning. Under their tutelage, he soared through the academic ranks, mastering complex mathematical formulas and arcane theories with ease. Even Master Aberran, a scholar of great repute, acknowledged Azernathy's prodigious abilities, recommending his advancement to higher-level courses. By the age of 17, Azernathy had become a Scholar, a title that brought him both prestige and a platform to disseminate his knowledge through teaching advanced courses, publishing research papers, and contributing to scholarly debates.The Turn to Business and Financial Acumen
Despite his academic accomplishments, Azernathy found little satisfaction in the realm of pedagogy. His students, though eager, rarely met his exacting standards, leading him to seek challenges elsewhere. It was during this period that he ventured into the world of business and finance. Utilizing his mathematical prowess, he quickly amassed a fortune, establishing himself as a formidable player in Tatharia Capitolina's economic landscape. To the public, he was a success story, a prodigy turned philanthropist who used his wealth to support educational and cultural initiatives, such as funding scholarships for underprivileged students at the Laboratorium and sponsoring the annual Tatharian Arts Festival.The Infernal Contract and Cosmic Trickery
Azernathy's true nature began to manifest when Magic returned to Rolara. Seizing the opportunity, he delved into the forbidden arts of necromancy and infernal contracts. It was during this Time that he entered into a pact with a Pit Fiend, an agent of Mammon. The contract was designed to secure Azernathy an unholy bounty of Soul Coins and Soul Stock in exchange for his soul in the afterlife. However, his mastery of numbers and contractual language allowed him to manipulate the terms to his advantage. The Pit Fiend was demoted to a Lemure, and Azernathy secured a unique form of infernal wealth that would sustain his malevolent activities even beyond death.The Shadow Empire and Rivalry with Daren Tor
As Azernathy's wealth and influence grew, so did the scope of his dark ambitions. He established a parallel evil empire, a clandestine network that engaged in illicit activities ranging from dark magical research to political subversion. It was during this period that he attracted the attention of Daren Tor, a renowned Artificer and guardian of Tatharian values. Despite Tor's intellectual prowess and moral conviction, he has been unable to definitively link Azernathy to his crimes, a testament to the latter's cunning and meticulous planning.Education
The Precocious Prodigy
From an early age, Azernathy Brüd displayed an intellectual acumen that set him apart from his peers. By the age of six, he was already solving complex puzzles meant for adults, and at ten, he successfully constructed a rudimentary arcane device that baffled even his teachers. His prodigious talents did not go unnoticed, and he was soon admitted to the Laboratorium, Tatharia Capitolina's most esteemed institution of learning. The Laboratorium was a crucible of innovation and scholarship, a place where the brightest minds of Tatharia were molded, including notable figures such as Master Aberran, who pioneered advancements in transmutation Magic. Here, young Azernathy found himself surrounded by scholars, arcane practitioners, and aspiring sages, all striving to push the boundaries of knowledge.The Fast Track to Advanced Learning
Azernathy's initial years at the Laboratorium were marked by a rapid ascent through the academic ranks. His instructors quickly realized that the standard curriculum was insufficient to challenge his extraordinary abilities, particularly in the realm of mathematics—such as when he effortlessly solved complex equations that even upper-year students struggled with. Even Master Aberran, a venerable scholar known for his exacting standards, concurred that Azernathy was squandering his potential in rudimentary courses. As a result, he was fast-tracked to advanced classes, bypassing several years of foundational studies.The Scholar Emerges
By the age of 17, Azernathy had achieved the rank of Scholar, an honor typically reserved for individuals many years his senior. His studies were not limited to mathematics; he also delved into arcane lore, ancient languages, and even the rudiments of necromancy—though this latter interest was kept a closely guarded secret, driven by his fascination with controlling life and death, and the power such knowledge could grant. As a Scholar, Azernathy was granted the privilege of teaching, and he took on the role of an educator with a sense of entitlement. His classes were intellectually rigorous, designed to weed out those who lacked the mental fortitude to meet his exacting standards.The Secret Studies
While his public academic pursuits were impressive enough, Azernathy also engaged in clandestine studies. The Laboratorium's extensive library, a Labyrinthine repository of ancient texts and forbidden tomes, became his sanctuary. Here, under the cover of darkness, he explored the darker aspects of arcane knowledge, laying the foundation for his future necromantic endeavors.Intellectual Networks and Influences
During his Time at the Laboratorium, Azernathy cultivated a network of contacts that would later serve him well in both his legitimate and illegitimate enterprises. He became particularly close to a select group of scholars who shared his unorthodox interests, forming a secret society dedicated to the exploration of arcane mysteries, such as soul transference, forbidden enchantments, and the manipulation of Life Force. This society, whose name remains unknown, would later become the intellectual core of his parallel evil empire.Mental Trauma
The Anomaly of Azernathy Brüd: A Life Devoid of Mental Trauma
A Loving Childhood
Psychological studies often suggest that a traumatic upbringing can lead to malevolent tendencies in adulthood. However, Azernathy Brüd defies this conventional wisdom. Born into a family that was the epitome of love and kindness, his early years were marked by an abundance of affection and emotional support. His parents would often take in neighbors who had fallen on hard times, providing them with meals and comfort, which left a lasting impression on young Azernathy. His father, a paragon of attentiveness, ensured that young Azernathy never felt neglected or unloved. He would often spend hours helping Azernathy with his studies, patiently explaining difficult concepts and encouraging his curiosity. Family outings, bedtime stories, and shared meals were regular occurrences, painting a picture of domestic bliss.Healthy Development
As Azernathy grew, so did his intellectual and emotional faculties. His parents encouraged open dialogue, fostering an environment where questions were welcomed and curiosity was nurtured. This led to a healthy development of his cognitive abilities, demonstrated by his knack for solving complex problems at an early age, as well as emotional intelligence, which was evident in his ability to mediate sibling disputes and empathize with others. He learned the values of empathy and kindness, not through harsh lessons but through positive reinforcement. His siblings, too, played a crucial role in his development. They were supportive figures who encouraged his intellectual pursuits, further contributing to his well-rounded upbringing.Supportive Siblings
Azernathy's siblings were not merely passive participants in his life; they were active contributors to his emotional well-being. Whether it was celebrating his academic achievements or standing by him during the minor setbacks of childhood, such as comforting him after a failed exam or helping him rebuild a broken project, their support was unwavering. This familial unity extended to social gatherings, religious observances, and even mundane daily activities. The Brüd household was a sanctuary of emotional stability, a place where each member felt valued and loved.The Laboratorium and Intellectual Growth
Azernathy's intellectual prowess was recognized early on, and he was enrolled in the Laboratorium, Tatharia Capitolina's esteemed institution of learning. Here too, he found an environment conducive to his intellectual and emotional growth. His instructors were not just educators; they were mentors who recognized his potential and nurtured it. Even Master Aberran, a figure of immense wisdom, took a keen interest in Azernathy's development, impressed by his ability to grasp complex arcane theories that eluded even older students. Recognizing his potential, Aberran fast-tracked him to advanced courses and eventually acknowledged him as a Scholar at the young age of 17. In light of his upbringing—a loving family, supportive siblings, and a nurturing educational environment—it is evident that Azernathy Brüd's life was devoid of mental trauma. He was not shaped by hardship or emotional neglect; rather, he was molded by love, support, and intellectual stimulation. This makes his inherent, irredeemable evil all the more perplexing, a dark enigma that defies the conventional understanding of morality and psychological development. Azernathy Brüd stands as an anomaly, a testament to the inexplicable complexities of Human nature.Morality & Philosophy
Azernathy Brüd's moral and philosophical framework is a study in the calculus of self-interest, a system devoid of conventional ethical considerations. Despite his loving upbringing, which emphasized compassion and empathy, Azernathy's worldview shifted dramatically as he grew older, likely influenced by his relentless pursuit of knowledge and power, which led him to see traditional morals as obstacles rather than virtues. In Brüd's world, morality is not a set of universal principles but rather a mutable construct, malleable to the whims of personal advantage. His philosophy is a complex algorithm, optimized for the acquisition of power, wealth, and arcane knowledge. It is a lens through which he views the world, a lens that refracts all things—be they Human relationships, business ventures, or arcane pursuits—into vectors of personal gain.
The Primacy of Self
At the core of Brüd's philosophy is the primacy of the self. One notable example of this is when he manipulated Velthur Avaini into signing an unfavorable contract, ensuring his own financial gain at the partner's expense. He views himself as the axis around which the world turns, a perspective that is not so much egocentric as it is solipsistic. In his calculations, other individuals are variables to be manipulated, their worth measured solely by their utility in advancing his objectives. This is not to say that he lacks the capacity for charm or social grace; on the contrary, his public persona is carefully curated to maximize his influence and appeal. However, these social interactions are strategic moves in a grander game, each calculated to yield maximum returns on his investment of Time and energy.The Fluidity of Ethics
In Brüd's philosophical construct, ethics are fluid, their value subject to the laws of supply and demand. What is considered 'good' or 'evil' is contingent upon the context, and more importantly, upon the potential benefits that can be reaped. This fluidity extends to his arcane pursuits, including his forays into necromancy and infernal contracts. These are not 'evil' acts in his view, but rather opportunities to acquire resources—be they Soul Coins, arcane knowledge, or political leverage.The Mathematics of Power
Brüd's mastery of mathematics is not merely an academic achievement; it is a metaphysical framework that informs his worldview. He perceives the dynamics of power, influence, and arcane energy as equations to be solved, variables to be optimized. This mathematical approach is evident in his business ventures, his manipulation of infernal contracts, and even his clandestine activities. Each action is a data point, each outcome a solution to a complex equation, all converging towards a singular goal: the maximization of his personal power.Social
Contacts & Relations
Azernathy Brüd's network of contacts, relations, and affiliations is as complex as the man himself. Spanning multiple realms of society, from the arcane to the infernal, his connections serve as both a testament to his influence and a mechanism for his dark enterprises.
Family Relations
- Father: Jorvald Brüd, A loving and attentive parent, unaware of his son's malevolent activities. He often helped Azernathy with his studies, nurturing his intellect without realizing the dark paths it would lead him down.
- Mother: Elsira Brüd, A socialite and philanthropist, equally oblivious to her son's dark pursuits. Her charitable events gave Azernathy early exposure to social maneuvering.
- Siblings: Supportive but uninformed about his true nature. One sibling, in particular, often stood by Azernathy during his academic struggles, providing encouragement that shaped his relentless pursuit of knowledge.
Academic Contacts
- Master Aberran: Late mentor and esteemed scholar at the Laboratorium, who recognized Azernathy's intellectual prowess. On one occasion, Master Aberran personally recommended Azernathy for an advanced project, impressed by his ability to solve complex arcane problems that baffled even seasoned scholars.
Business Associates
- Thalor Quent: A high-ranking member of the Mercantorum, who facilitates some of Brüd's more legitimate financial endeavors. Thalor's influence in trade has allowed Brüd to mask his illicit activities under a veneer of respectability.
- Lysandra Vex: Owner of several shell companies that Brüd uses for money laundering and other illicit activities. One such company, "Vex Holdings," serves as a front for funneling funds from underground gambling operations.
Infernal Contacts
- Mammon: Archdevil and Chief Executive Devil of HellCo, with whom Brüd has a complex and antagonistic relationship. During one notable exchange, Brüd outmaneuvered Mammon in a contract negotiation, securing better terms for himself and humiliating the archdevil.
- Unnamed Pit Fiend (now a Lemure): The unfortunate agent of Mammon who was outwitted by Brüd and subsequently demoted. This pit Fiend's demotion serves as a cautionary tale among HellCo's ranks.
Clandestine Network
- Gorvald the Shade: A trusted lieutenant who oversees Brüd's dark magical research cells. Gorvald is known for his ruthlessness and efficiency in securing rare arcane components.
- Resphine the Whisper: Another lieutenant, responsible for gathering intelligence and coordinating espionage activities. Resphine's network of spies has proven invaluable in keeping Brüd informed of rival movements.
Rivals and Adversaries
- Daren Tor: A renowned Artificer and guardian of Tatharian values, who views Brüd as a threat to the cosmic balance and is committed to unmasking his malevolent activities. Their rivalry came to a head during an attempted raid on one of Brüd's facilities, where Tor narrowly missed capturing crucial evidence.
Affiliations
- The Laboratorium: Alma mater and a beneficiary of Brüd's public philanthropy. His donations have helped fund numerous research projects, ensuring his continued influence within the institution.
- Mercantorum: The largest trade organization in Rolara, where Brüd holds significant influence despite its headquarters being in Shamsi-Adad. His ties to Mercantorum allow him to manipulate market trends to his advantage.
- HellCo: Though not a formal affiliation, Brüd's infernal contract with one of its agents has made him a person of interest within this devilish corporation.
Wealth & Financial state
Azernathy Brüd's financial standing is a complex blend of legitimate and illegitimate ventures, each contributing to his formidable wealth, though not quite on par with Armen Sasounyan's. His financial empire mirrors his dual nature: a mix of public-facing philanthropy, such as funding schools and hospitals in underserved areas, alongside shadowy criminal enterprises like an underground gambling network and black-market magical artifact trading. This section explores the facets of Brüd's wealth, including his class standing, assets, and intricate financial web.
Class Standing
Azernathy Brüd occupies a unique position within the social hierarchy of Tatharia Capitolina. While not an aristocrat by birth, his immense wealth and philanthropic endeavors have granted him a status that rivals the city's oldest and most respected families. This standing provides him not only with social capital but also with a veneer of respectability that shields his darker pursuits from public scrutiny.Dependencies
Brüd's financial empire is not a standalone entity but rather a complex network of dependencies. These range from legitimate businesses, such as trading companies and arcane research facilities, to illicit operations like underground gambling dens and black-market trading hubs. Each dependency serves a specific function within his financial ecosystem, whether as a source of revenue, a laundering mechanism, or a means of exerting influence. For instance, his trading company not only generates legitimate income but also acts as a front for smuggling rare arcane components, while his arcane research facilities are used to cultivate connections with influential scholars and gain political leverage.Debts
Remarkably, Brüd's financial portfolio is virtually debt-free, a testament to his mathematical genius and strategic acumen. Any debts that do exist are strategic in nature, designed to create leverage or to serve as investments in future ventures. For example, Brüd once took on a significant debt to secure a controlling interest in a rival's trading company, which later allowed him to manipulate the market and force competitors out of business, ultimately turning a profit. His lack of significant debt contributes to his financial stability and enhances his ability to maneuver within both legitimate and illegitimate financial circles.Funds and Disposable Income
Brüd's liquid assets are considerable, providing him with a level of disposable income that few can rival. This financial liquidity serves multiple purposes: it funds his philanthropic endeavors, fuels his illicit activities, and allows him to make rapid, high-stakes investments as opportunities arise. For example, he once purchased a controlling share in a struggling arcane tech company overnight, turning it into a profitable venture within months. His disposable income is a key factor in his ability to adapt and pivot, to seize upon new ventures while divesting from less profitable ones.Assets and Investments
Azernathy Brüd's portfolio of assets and investments is as diverse as it is extensive. On the legitimate side, it includes real estate holdings, such as a prominent estate in the Merchant's Quarter of Tatharia Capitolina, shares in various Tatharian enterprises, and even stakes in arcane research initiatives, including a project focused on developing new methods of aetherite refinement. On the illegitimate side, it encompasses a range of shadowy ventures, from smuggling routes to illegal magical artifact trading. Each asset and investment is carefully chosen to align with his broader financial and strategic goals, whether that means diversifying his revenue streams, consolidating his power, or hedging against potential risks.
Alignment
Lawful Evil
Current Location
Species
Ethnicity
Children
Pronouns
He/Him
Sex
Male
Gender
Man
Presentation
Masculine
Eyes
Brown
Hair
Brown
Height
5'9"
Weight
145 lbs
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