Pherdinand Fredon – Backstory
(NOTE: AI was used for grammar and spell checking)
Pherdinand’s life was a simple one. His father was an Adunian, and his mother was a Highlander. From his father he learned to fight (although he never truly mastered the art of combat); from his mother he learned how to survive in the wild, something he took to very well. His sister taught him music, which he took a deep interest in. And finally, he taught himself wonder, and grew up with a desire for adventure, something not too common when living in the harsh environment of Ilharcress. What little interaction he had with those in nearby villages he treasured.
As an adult, Pherdinand could contain his desire for travel no longer. He wanted to move, to walk amongst new people and new locations, to see every corner of a world so much bigger than himself. After finally convincing his parents to let him go, he took off. One thing about Pherdinand, however, was that he had an ongoing unlucky streak, and this time it struck hard. Just as he had left home, Pherdinand fell into a ravine and hit his head hard. When he awoke from his painful slumber, he had only a headache, supplies for travel, and no memory of who he was other than the name embroidered on his bag: Pherdinand.
It was a simple conclusion, looking at his supplies and feeling the delight he did from walking after he stood up, that he must be some sort of wanderer. This sounded pleasant to him, and so now he travels the world, looking to explore and maybe even find out who he is.
The traveller has just arrived in a small town. As they look around, their gaze is met with run down houses and shops. They duck into one of the shacks, illuminated by a series of candles suspended in the air. At the back of the small room, an old hag raises her head, “What brings you to this dingy town?" She begins, then pauses to study their face—”Ah, it’s you. I’ve been expecting you. Sit,” she gestures at a chair, “Where do you come from? What do you hope to make of yourself?”
His eyes widen slightly, a hint of excitement and curiosity, "Expecting... me? So you know who I am?" He cannot help but hope, despite everything telling him that she likely means a different sort of expectancy.
The old hag nods, "But of course, are you not the bodyguard I asked the castle to send?" her question is genuine, and laced with no malice.
Pherdinand's eyes fall slightly, realizing there was a misunderstanding. Straightening his tunic and satchel he shakes his head, "I am sorry ma'am. You must have me mistaken with someone else. I am a wanderer, Pherdinand."
The Old Hag approaches and begins pinching his arms, "Hmm, you have some muscle, a bit lean for my tastes but you should do fine." A sudden jolt as she looks up at his face, "As long as you can protect my son for the day then I can pay you instead of those twats who work for Royalty."
Pherdinand nervously takes his arm away, confused at first until he he hears the job offer, "A... a body guard? For your son?" Turning around he strokes his chin, he could use the money since he spent a bit using the carriage to get to this town. He'll need food before he can move on, with a grin he turns back around, "Very well, I shall take you upon your offer. I am no royalty... uhhh **** protector... but I shall do my best."
With a pat of his arm she begins stepping away, "Yes yes, now come along he is waiting at my house."
With a big smile and a strut, Pherdinand follows, excited to see where this takes him... not before tripping over a cart wheel and faceplanting, "I'm okay!" His muffled voice says from the dirt.

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