Rigby the Steel Defender

Overview:
Rigby is a mechanical canine companion crafted by the artificer Telion Tarnishshield. Originally a living Boston Terrier, Rigby met an untimely demise during an Investigation in a nest of Lizardfolk. Devastated but determined, Telion managed to preserve Rigby's essence within a soul coin, later using his artificer expertise to reconstruct him as a Steel Defender. Now, Rigby serves as Telion’s loyal and intelligent protector, embodying both the memories of his past life and the resilience of his new form.

Appearance:
Rigby, in his Steel Defender form, retains the stature and features of a Boston Terrier but is now composed of enchanted metal and intricate gears. His reinforced chassis is inscribed with arcane runes, and his glowing blue eyes shine with an eerie but intelligent light. Despite his mechanical nature, Rigby moves with the agility and personality of a real dog, tilting his head curiously at sounds and remaining ever-vigilant by Telion’s side.

Abilities & Functionality:

• Loyal Protector: Rigby acts as Telion’s personal guardian, shielding him from harm and assisting in battle.
• Arcane Infusions: Telion has imbued Rigby with magical enhancements, allowing him to repair himself over time and withstand heavy attacks.
• Keen Senses: Retaining his natural instincts, Rigby can detect hidden threats and respond accordingly.
• Tactical Intelligence: Unlike mindless constructs, Rigby possesses a degree of autonomy, responding to commands and assessing combat situations effectively.
• Adaptive Combat Unit: Rigby is capable of delivering powerful mechanical bites and using his steel frame to knock enemies prone.

Alternative Versions of Rigby:

The Sethverse
Much the same this the Prime timelines version. Rigby was once Telion’s faithful companion, a small but courageous Boston Terrier. The two were inseparable until the fateful day when Telion’s world was torn apart. In an explosion set off by the Red Brands, Telion lost both his wife and his beloved dog. While his wife could not be saved, Telion salvaged Rigby’s soul within a coin, keeping the essence of his best friend alive. Using all his knowledge of artifice, he built Rigby anew, ensuring that while his body may have changed, his loyalty and spirit remained intact.

Personality & Traits:
Despite his transformation, Rigby retains the playful curiosity and unwavering devotion he had in life. He still enjoys scratches on his metal plating, responds to Telion’s voice with eager obedience, and remains ever-ready to protect his master. He is not just a construct but a cherished companion who represents Telion’s loss, ingenuity, and hope.

Notable Moments:

• First Activation: The moment Rigby’s eyes flickered to life in his new steel form was one of Telion’s greatest triumphs and deepest sorrows.
• Battle Against the Red Brands: Rigby has played a key role in avenging his master’s exile and fighting back against the Red Brands.
• Surviving the Forge: During a perilous mission, Rigby helped Telion and his allies escape a collapsing forge, proving his worth beyond mere combat.

Conclusion:
Rigby the Steel Defender is more than just an automaton—he is the embodiment of loyalty, resilience, and Telion’s undying love for his best friend. A construct of steel but a heart of unwavering devotion, Rigby continues to serve, protect, and stand beside his master, proving that not even death could sever their bond.

Rigby Pre Accident