It’s come to my attention that I haven’t really told anyone the stories behind the character sketches I’ve done. My short answer is always an awkward “Oh, it’s just a random character” or “I don’t know”. Which, most of the time, is somewhat true. I often have images in my head of concepts–whether or not they go anywhere–especially of characters.
I’m also a writer. I don’t really talk about it a lot, but I really enjoy writing stories as well (maybe I’ll publish one of them on here). Thus, most of the portraits I draw are based on characters in my stories. My current work-in-progress is a brainchild that’s been floating around since high school. It’s changed multiple times of course, but I finally finished the first book a few months ago. It still needs quite a bit of editing as well. But, at least it’s on paper, right?
Anyway, I’d like to start telling the stories behind my portraits and introducing the characters. Ultimately, to give them more life because I’m tired of giving a bland answer (besides, who doesn’t like a good story?).
First up is my favorite character. Randolphus Koraenaz (cor-EHN-uh) (yes I made it up). He goes by “Rando” (and yes I realize that it’s slang for ‘random’–which is how I came up with his name to begin with. Although I didn’t know at the time–or it wasn’t slang then).
I introduce him at the end of chapter two:
What little sunlight illuminated the area, seemed to make this man’s hair glow. It was blonde, but almost white, which was in stark contrast with his dark tan skin.
His unique genetic makeup is a result of his Varoujian ethnicity. I could go into a long story about his home–the island of Varou–but I’ll skip that for now. Basically they’re known for the combination of tan skin, very striking eyes (usually a shade of green or golden brown), and jet black or stark white/blonde hair. Which is pretty bland for your average fantasy race, but I wanted it that way. Of course, I could’ve let him tell you that himself:
“I can’t place your accent,” she said, changing the subject. A wide grin grew across his face as he nodded slowly, his eyes seemed to twinkle.
“That does come out occasionally. My first language is not common-tongue. I’m from Varou,” He replied folding his hands on the table.
Harlow appeared contemplative, “The name sounds familiar, but I’m afraid I don’t know where that is.”
He chuckled in response, “It’s a tiny island in the Drumat Ocean. It’s not too terribly far from the shores of Casponica.”
“I thought you seemed out-of-place,” Harlow replied smiling.
“I do get a lot of stares and looks from strangers,” he said running his fingers through his hair, “bright green eyes and white hair isn’t exactly common around here. Not to mention my particular skin tone.”
“Is that common in Varou?” She inquired.
“Indeed it is,” he agreed, “although not all my people have light hair. In fact some have very dark hair and bronze colored eyes.”
The other character, Harlow, I’ll get to introduce later. Oh, and did I mention he was a sorcerer? With magical tattoos?
Rando’s branded back really was impressive. In the middle of his back was a large circle with similar word scribbles along the edge. In the center of the circle was a star design, also with scribbled word-like brands. Altogether it resembled a complex compass rose. Other, smaller, geometrical designs surrounded the outside to complete the composition.
Extending up over his shoulder blades and his upper arms were more organic looking patterns which mimicked vines or branches. On his lower back appeared lines of text, like that in a book. These however were not the common scribbles, but took on more hieroglyphic characteristics instead.
“You’ve gotta show off too,” Theodas prodded. Without protest, Rando turned, extended his arm towards his curly-haired friend with his palm facing him. The whole group jumped back in surprise as a blue flame ignited on his arm. It then abruptly blasted a wide-eyed Theodas over the table and onto the floor.
Without spoiling the rest of the story, I’ll leave it here. Intrigued? Good. I hope you can see his portrait through a different lens now.
Let me know what you think in the comments or shoot me an email! And, of course, don’t forget to check back later for a new character story!