Patryck Lundberg
Sword of the Council Patrick Michael Lundberg (a.k.a. Trick)
Physical Description
General Physical Condition
Body Features
Facial Features
Identifying Characteristics
Physical quirks
Specialized Equipment
Mental characteristics
Personal history
Sexuality
Education
Employment
Accomplishments & Achievements
Failures & Embarrassments
Mental Trauma
Intellectual Characteristics
Morality & Philosophy
Morality
1. Duty to the Law and Order Patryck’s primary sense of duty is not necessarily to protect the innocent out of compassion, but to uphold order and maintain stability. As a Lawful Neutral character, his primary motivation is the enforcement of the rules that keep society functioning, even if those rules sometimes lead to outcomes that might seem morally gray. He respects the authority of Lankhmar’s government and the laws, even when he disagrees with them, and believes in following the chain of command. While he has a personal code of honor, it is secondary to his responsibility to the city’s laws. This makes him willing to make difficult or even cold decisions if they serve the greater order. For instance, he might arrest someone he personally sympathizes with because they broke the law, or carry out a council directive even if it seems unfair. 2. Justice as an Extension of Law Patryck’s concept of justice is tightly tied to the law, though his Lawful Neutral nature allows for a degree of flexibility. While he believes in enforcing the laws as they exist, he also understands that Lankhmar is a corrupt city, and sometimes the law needs to be interpreted or bent to maintain the city's stability. He does not seek personal revenge or vigilante justice, but if breaking the rules ensures the overall balance and function of the city, he may do so while feeling it’s justified under the broader framework of maintaining order. His justice is pragmatic rather than idealistic. He upholds the law but has no delusions about the perfect morality of it. What matters to him is that the system doesn’t collapse into chaos. 3. Loyalty to Structure, not People Patryck’s loyalty is more toward the structures and institutions of Lankhmar than to specific individuals. While he does have personal connections, like with Michael and his fellow guards, his deeper loyalty is to the city itself and its governing systems. This means he will follow orders, even if he doesn’t agree with them on a personal level, because he believes that the chain of command must be respected for the city to function. Though he is willing to protect the people of Lankhmar, he does so because it is his duty as a city guard, not because of a personal moral imperative to help others. His loyalty to his role can sometimes lead him to make decisions that seem cold or detached, as his priority is maintaining the rules that hold society together. 4. Vigilance in Service of Law Patryck's vigilance is not simply a survival mechanism but is tied to his responsibility to keep order. As a Lawful Neutral character, he sees being constantly alert and prepared as essential to fulfilling his role in society. This vigilance ensures that threats to Lankhmar’s stability are dealt with swiftly and efficiently. His sense of vigilance also extends to watching for corruption or inefficiencies within the system itself, as these are threats to the city’s order. 5. Skepticism of Individuals, Trust in Systems While Patryck is skeptical of individuals, he places his trust in systems. This differs from someone who is purely pragmatic or chaotic—Patryck believes that the systems in place, even if flawed, are better than allowing chaos to reign. He may not trust those in power, but he trusts that rules and structure keep the city functioning. His skepticism toward individuals means he’s often wary of trusting personal motives, but as long as the laws are upheld, he believes the system will prevail.Philosophy of Life
1. Order Above All Patryck believes that order is the cornerstone of society. Without rules, everything falls apart, and as a city guard, it is his duty to maintain this order, even if it means making morally ambiguous decisions. To him, the law is the law, and it must be respected, as it provides the framework that prevents Lankhmar from devolving into chaos. He acknowledges that the city’s laws are sometimes harsh or unfair, but he sees them as necessary for the greater stability of the city. This philosophy means that Patryck doesn’t seek to change the system, but to enforce it. He may occasionally bend rules when it serves a greater purpose, but never with the intent to undermine the system itself. 2. Pragmatic Ethics Patryck’s moral code is governed by pragmatism. He believes that life is too chaotic to adhere to rigid ethical ideals, but order can still be maintained through flexibility within the law. While he understands the value of mercy, he views it as a tool to be used sparingly, only when it doesn’t threaten the stability of the system. His philosophy is that if laws need to be adjusted, it should be done through official channels, not personal moral decisions. In his eyes, there’s a difference between maintaining order and acting on one’s emotions or personal beliefs. He keeps his personal feelings in check, focusing instead on what is necessary to maintain balance in the city. 3. Strength in the Service of Order Patryck values strength, but in service to maintaining the city’s laws and structure. He believes that true strength comes from controlling one’s emotions and channeling that energy into enforcing the rules. To him, strength is not just about physical power or winning battles—it’s about maintaining discipline and upholding the order that keeps society functioning. He views chaos and lawlessness as the greatest threats to Lankhmar, and he uses his strength to fight against these forces, seeing them as existential dangers to the city’s structure. 4. Attraction to Intelligence and Rationality Patryck is attracted to intelligence and wit, especially as embodied by Michael. He admires Michael’s sharp mind and rational approach to life, seeing it as a strength that complements his own. While Patryck doesn’t see himself as particularly intellectual, he is drawn to those who think logically and strategically, and he respects people who can navigate the world through reason. This admiration is also part of his philosophy of life—Patryck values rationality and believes that the smartest people are those who can see the bigger picture and understand the necessity of rules and structure. 5. Balance and Control For Patryck, life is about balance. He doesn’t seek glory or personal reward, nor does he act out of a sense of altruism. Instead, he strives to maintain the delicate balance between order and chaos. He sees himself as part of the mechanism that keeps Lankhmar stable, understanding that without people like him enforcing the rules, the city would fall into ruin. His personal motto might be, "Do what must be done," reflecting his belief that sometimes maintaining order requires hard decisions and sacrifice, but it is always in service of a greater, lawful balance.Taboos
Personality Characteristics
Motivation
Patryck is also motivated by a desire for redemption. Though he has left his life as a cutpurse behind, the memories of his criminal past still haunt him. He pushes himself to be better, to make up for the mistakes of his youth by dedicating his life to law and order. This internal drive to atone for his past misdeeds keeps him committed to his role, constantly striving to be a protector and enforcer of justice. Finally, Patryck is motivated by a need for stability and control. Having grown up in an environment of unpredictability and violence, he now seeks to impose order on the world around him. This desire for control over his environment—and himself—helps him manage his emotions, his relationships, and his responsibilities, ensuring that chaos doesn’t overtake his life again.
Likes & Dislikes
Vices & Personality flaws
Personality Quirks
Hygiene
Social
Contacts & Relations
Family Ties
Religious Views
Social Aptitude
Mannerisms
Hobbies & Pets
Relationships
History
Patryck and Michael’s journey toward intimacy began with a series of chance encounters in the Mercantile District, where Patryck spent most of his time patrolling. Their initial interactions were brief, but each time they met, a deeper connection formed. Michael, a student at Ars Magica, found himself increasingly drawn to Patryck's quiet strength and protective nature, while Patryck was intrigued by Michael's intelligence and charm. However, it wasn't until a particular night, when Michael’s life was in danger, that their relationship truly shifted.
One evening, Michael was returning from his studies when a local merchant, who had been harboring an unhealthy fixation on him, cornered him. The merchant, larger and stronger than Michael, attempted to force him into a nearby alley with the clear intention of assaulting him. Just as things were about to escalate, Patryck, while on patrol, noticed the situation. He stepped in without hesitation, drawing his weapon and scaring off the merchant before he could drag Michael into a nearby building.
Though Michael was shaken, Patryck remained calm and insistent that he walk Michael back to his quarters at Ars Magica. Along the way, the tension between them, already building from months of subtle exchanges, became more palpable. Michael, who had always sensed Patryck’s emotional walls, saw something different in him that night—concern and protectiveness that ran deeper than the duty of a city guard.
When they reached Michael’s quarters, they sat together in the dim light of his study, the silence between them heavy with unspoken emotion. Michael, ever perceptive, noticed how much the incident had unsettled Patryck, even though he tried to hide it. Gently, Michael reached out and touched Patryck’s arm, offering him comfort. To his surprise, Patryck didn’t pull away; instead, he let himself be vulnerable, something he had rarely allowed himself to do.
In that moment, their connection deepened, and they both realized their feelings had grown far beyond friendship. What started as a soft touch turned into a quiet, tentative kiss. That night, they crossed the line from friendship into something far more intimate. Their first time together was not rushed—it was filled with caution, tenderness, and an unspoken understanding. Patryck, who had spent years guarding himself emotionally, finally felt safe enough to let someone in. For Michael, it was about creating a space of trust, where Patryck could be himself without fear. This moment of intimacy solidified the bond between them, laying the foundation for a relationship built on mutual respect, trust, and a deep, personal connection.
Nicknames & Petnames
Michael calls Patryck "Trick", like his friends call him. In intimate situations, he calls him "daddy". Patryck calls Michael "Love".
Relationship Reasoning
In essence, the reasoning behind their relationship is that they complement and complete each other. Patryck offers the emotional security and physical protection Michael needs, while Michael provides the intellectual stimulation and emotional refuge that Patryck craves. Their bond is grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and a deep understanding of each other’s strengths and vulnerabilities, making their relationship both practical and emotionally fulfilling.
Commonalities & Shared Interests
Despite their different backgrounds, Michael and Patryck share several commonalities that have strengthened their bond over time. One of the core elements of their relationship is the mutual respect they have for each other's strengths. Patryck greatly admires Michael's intelligence and magical abilities, qualities that complement his own more physical, pragmatic nature. Similarly, Michael deeply values Patryck's unwavering loyalty, protective instincts, and strong sense of duty. This mutual admiration helps bridge the gap between their seemingly different worlds.
Both men find solace in quiet, intimate moments. Neither is fond of excessive socializing or grand gestures, preferring the peace that comes with simply being together. Whether they’re sitting in comfortable silence at Michael’s quarters, or sharing a quiet evening after a long day, they find these moments to be deeply restorative. It's in these moments that they connect most, without the need for constant conversation or action.
Though Patryck is a fighter and Michael a student of magic, they both enjoy the mental challenge of strategy. Patryck’s tactical mind, shaped by years of combat, aligns with Michael’s love for problem-solving and intellectual pursuits. They often play strategy games like chess or similar games from Lankhmar, and while Patryck may not always win, he finds the process engaging, enjoying the challenge of matching wits with Michael. For Michael, it’s a way to connect with Patryck on an intellectual level, appreciating his willingness to engage in thoughtful pursuits even if it’s outside his comfort zone.
Their shared appreciation for practicality also plays a role in their bond. Patryck’s no-nonsense, functional mindset aligns with Michael’s approach to magic and life in general. Both value efficiency over extravagance and have little interest in the excesses of Lankhmar’s wealthier classes. Whether Patryck is meticulously maintaining his weapons or Michael is refining his magical skills, they both understand the importance of discipline and focus.
Neither of them is comfortable in formal or elite circles. Patryck, with his rough upbringing, has little patience for the pretentiousness of Lankhmar’s upper class. Michael, though exposed to the city’s elite through his studies at Ars Magica, also feels out of place among them. Their shared discomfort with the excesses of wealth and power creates a bond, as both prefer a more grounded, practical way of living. They both have a distaste for the superficial displays of status and wealth that are common in Lankhmar, preferring the company of those who value hard work and intellect over privilege.
A strong sense of duty also ties them together, though it manifests in different ways. Patryck is committed to his role as a protector of Lankhmar, a responsibility he takes very seriously. Michael, on the other hand, feels a deep sense of duty to his studies and the magical knowledge he is accumulating. They both understand the weight of their responsibilities and the sacrifices that come with them, which allows them to support each other in times of stress. Patryck respects Michael's dedication to magic, and Michael admires Patryck's loyalty to his role as Sword of the Council.
Together, they share an interest in exploring the mysteries of Lankhmar. Michael’s curiosity about the city’s hidden magical elements sometimes piques Patryck’s interest as well. While Patryck is often skeptical of magic, he respects Michael’s knowledge and occasionally joins him in exploring Lankhmar’s darker, more arcane aspects. Their combined skills—Patryck’s physical protection and Michael’s intellectual insight—make them an effective team when delving into the unknown parts of the city.
Another key bond between them is their protective instincts toward one another. Patryck is the obvious physical protector, always vigilant over Michael’s safety in Lankhmar’s dangerous streets. However, Michael is equally protective of Patryck, particularly when it comes to his emotional well-being. Michael often encourages Patryck to lower his emotional walls, offering a safe space for him to process the emotional burden of his past and his responsibilities. Their mutual desire to protect each other, both physically and emotionally, strengthens their connection.
Shared Secrets
Michael and Patryck's relationship is built on a foundation of trust, strengthened by the secrets they share, which create a deep bond between them. One of the most significant secrets they keep is the very existence of their relationship. Given Patryck’s role as Sword of the Council and Michael’s position as a student at Ars Magica, they know that revealing their romantic involvement could invite unwanted scrutiny. In the dangerous political and criminal landscape of Lankhmar, where knowledge is power and can be weaponized, they have chosen to keep their relationship discreet. The fewer people who know about them, the safer they are.
Another secret they hold close is the near-death experience that Michael had when he was almost stabbed during an attempted robbery in the Mercantile District. Patryck had intervened just in time, saving Michael, but the event left a lasting mark on both of them. Patryck’s protective instincts, already strong, became even more intense after this incident. They rarely talk about what happened, understanding that exposing Michael’s vulnerability could put him in greater danger. Patryck, in particular, does not want this incident to reflect poorly on his reputation as a protector.
Patryck’s criminal past is another secret they share. Few in Lankhmar know that Patryck once lived as a cutpurse before joining the City Guard. This is a part of his life that he keeps buried, fearing that it could jeopardize his position if the wrong people were to find out. Michael is one of the few people Patryck has trusted with this knowledge, and he respects the journey Patryck has made from street thief to protector. Together, they keep this part of his history hidden from those who might use it against him.
Michael, too, has his own secrets, particularly concerning his forbidden magical research. Though he is cautious, Michael’s natural curiosity has led him to explore spells and magical theories that push the boundaries of what is considered acceptable at Ars Magica. Patryck is aware of this, and while he remains wary of magic in general, he trusts Michael’s judgment. They both understand that if this research were discovered by the wrong people, it could cause serious trouble for Michael. Out of loyalty, Patryck keeps this secret safe, recognizing the importance of Michael’s intellectual pursuits.
On a more personal level, Patryck has shared with Michael his emotional struggles and vulnerabilities—aspects of himself that he would never reveal to anyone else. The weight of his role in the city, his guilt over his past, and the emotional burden of constantly being on guard are things that Patryck keeps locked away from the world. Only with Michael does he allow himself to be vulnerable, sharing the emotional toll that his responsibilities take on him. Michael, in turn, provides the emotional refuge that Patryck needs, keeping these moments of vulnerability between them.
Both men also possess shared knowledge of Lankhmar’s darker sides. Patryck’s work in the City Guard has exposed him to the city’s criminal networks, while Michael’s connection to the magical community gives him insight into the arcane dealings of Lankhmar. Together, they have a unique perspective on the hidden dangers that lurk in the city. They’ve uncovered secrets about political figures and criminal leaders that could be highly damaging if revealed. For their own safety, and to maintain stability, they keep this information to themselves, knowing that revealing it could invite chaos.
At times, Michael has also had to cover for Patryck, using his magical abilities discreetly to assist Patryck in ways that others don’t know about. Whether by gathering information through magical means or providing healing that Patryck couldn’t seek through public channels, Michael has quietly supported Patryck in his duties. They keep this quiet collaboration secret, understanding that it could raise questions about Patryck’s work or Michael’s position at the academy.
One of their most personal secrets is their shared vision for the future. Despite the dangers of Lankhmar and their respective roles in the city, they’ve privately discussed the possibility of leaving one day to live a quieter life together. It’s a dream they both hold, though they don’t speak of it often, knowing that their current responsibilities keep them bound to Lankhmar. Still, the idea of finding a place where they can live openly and without fear remains a shared goal, one that keeps them grounded amidst the chaos of their lives.
The secrets they share—whether about their relationship, their personal struggles, or the hidden dangers of the city—are the foundation of the trust between them. Together, Michael and Patryck navigate the complexities and dangers of Lankhmar, relying on the unspoken understanding that they will protect each other’s secrets just as fiercely as they protect each other. These hidden truths deepen their connection, creating a bond that is as much about survival as it is about love
Shared Acquaintances
Michael and Patryck, despite coming from different backgrounds, have developed connections with several individuals in Lankhmar who serve as shared acquaintances. These connections help bridge their worlds and provide additional depth to their relationship.
1. Liora Thorne
Liora Thorne is a fellow student at Ars Magica and a close friend of Michael. She is known for her expertise in enchantments and has often collaborated with Michael on various magical projects. Liora has also interacted with Patryck on multiple occasions, primarily through Michael. She respects Patryck’s role in the City Guard and has witnessed firsthand his dedication to protecting Michael. Liora serves as a neutral ground between Michael and Patryck, facilitating interactions and providing support when needed.
2. Captain Darius Rook
Captain Darius Rook is the commanding officer of the City Guard and oversees Patryck’s duties as the Sword of the Council. He has developed a professional relationship with Michael through Michael’s interactions with the guard, especially after Patryck introduced Michael to some of the guard’s resources for information gathering. Captain Rook respects both men, recognizing Patryck’s value as a protector and Michael’s contributions as a magical scholar. While their interactions are mostly formal, Captain Rook occasionally seeks Michael’s insights on magical matters that intersect with city security.
3. Matthix Porpherius
Matthix Porpherius, a Black Wizard who owns a renowned taxidermy shop in the Marsh District, is another shared acquaintance. Michael often consults Matthix for rare materials needed for his magical research, and Patryck has worked with Matthix when unusual magical artifacts come into the guard’s possession. Matthix admires Michael’s dedication to his studies and respects Patryck’s commitment to maintaining order. His shop serves as a discreet meeting place where both Michael and Patryck can exchange information when necessary.
4. Selene Varek
Selene Varek is a merchant in the Mercantile District who owns a popular apothecary. She has a friendly relationship with both Michael and Patryck. Selene provides Michael with rare ingredients for his magical experiments and offers Patryck supplies and potions to aid in his duties. Her shop is a hub of information, and Selene often shares insights about the goings-on in the district with both men, making her an invaluable resource for their respective roles.
5. Gareth “The Shadow”
Gareth, nicknamed “The Shadow,” is a skilled informant who operates within Lankhmar’s underworld. He has connections with both Michael and Patryck, albeit in different capacities. Patryck relies on Gareth for discreet information about criminal activities that threaten the city, while Michael occasionally taps into Gareth’s network to gather intel on arcane threats. Gareth’s ability to navigate both the magical and criminal realms makes him a crucial link between Michael and Patryck’s worlds.
6. Evelyn Starfire
Evelyn Starfire is a mage and librarian at Ars Magica. She assists Michael with his research and has become acquainted with Patryck through their shared interest in protecting Lankhmar from hidden threats. Evelyn often collaborates with both men when dealing with magical anomalies or historical artifacts that require both magical and physical expertise. Her extensive knowledge of magical lore makes her a respected figure among their shared acquaintances.
7. Thorin Ironfist
Thorin Ironfist is a dwarven blacksmith who runs a forge near the Mercantile District. Both Michael and Patryck have interacted with Thorin on multiple occasions—Michael for enchanted weaponry and Thorin for maintaining Patryck’s gear. Thorin’s craftsmanship ensures that Patryck’s armor and weapons are always in top condition, while his enchanted creations provide Michael with unique tools for his magical studies. Thorin’s no-nonsense attitude and reliable nature make him a trusted ally for both men.
Legal Status
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