Rivenkivuli Rukimbia

Physical Description

General Physical Condition

Riven Shadowdusk is a tall tabaxi, standing at approximately 6 feet (1.83 meters). His build is lean and muscular, indicating physical fitness and agility. His fur is predominantly grey with patches of deep black, giving him a distinctive, monochromatic appearance.
His fur is well-groomed and smooth to the touch, with no visible blemishes or scars. It covers his entire body, including his face, paws, and the tufted tips of his triangular ears.
Riven's facial features are sharp and angular. He has pronounced cheekbones and a well-defined jawline. His eyes are almond-shaped and a striking emerald green color. They hold a sense of keen intelligence and focus. His nose is small and black, while his mouth is thin and expressive.
He possesses a pair of large, triangular ears with tufts of black fur at their tips, giving him a slightly more feline appearance. These ears are capable of picking up subtle sounds and movements.
Riven's hands are slender and dexterous, with long fingers that hint at his finesse in the arcane arts. His retractable claws are sharp and well-maintained, adding to his overall air of precision and control.
His attire consists of a black robe with intricate gold trimmings that frame the edges of the garment. Underneath, he wears black trousers that match the style of the robe, also adorned with gold trimmings. Around his waist, he wears an ornate red belt, which provides a striking contrast to the predominantly dark ensemble.
Three chains drape across his chest, connecting the two sides of the open robe. These chains bear the arcane symbols of the schools of magic he has mastered. The largest chain, in particular, prominently displays the symbol of the illusion school, indicating his expertise in this field.

Physical quirks

Elongated Fingers: Riven's fingers could be slightly longer than average, making them particularly adept at delicate tasks such as manipulating lockpicks or handling intricate magical components.
Piercing Eyes: Riven's eyes might have an intense, almost hypnotic quality to them. When he locks gaze with someone, it can be disconcerting, and it's a trait he uses to his advantage during negotiations or when trying to unnerve adversaries.
Mysterious Smiles: Riven's smiles could be cryptic and elusive, often leaving others guessing about his true intentions. His lips curl into a faint, enigmatic smile when he's deep in thought or amused by a situation.
Meticulous Grooming: He could display a meticulous attention to personal grooming, ensuring that even while leading a double life, his appearance remains impeccable and unassuming.
Signature Scent: Riven might have a distinctive, subtle scent that lingers around him, perhaps a rare perfume or a particular type of incense. This scent might be used to recognize his presence by those in the know.

Mental characteristics

Personal history

Childhood in the Oasis of KhulKaThul:

Riven's tale begins in the vibrant oasis city of KhulKaThul, nestled on the eastern shore of The Slithereens Puddle, the world's largest lake. Born into a middle-class family, his early years were defined by the juxtaposition of the lush oasis and the surrounding desert. His family, like many in the city, reveled in the bounty provided by the palm trees and the lake's waters.

Discovery of Magical Aptitude: Even as a child, Riven displayed a remarkable affinity for the arcane. His talent for manipulating reality and crafting illusions became evident when he unwittingly conjured shimmering mirages to entertain his friends. This early display of magic both fascinated and concerned his family, who recognized the potential of his gift.

Apprenticeship Under Nyssarion: Riven's journey into the world of magic truly began when he caught the eye of Nyssarion, a renowned mage from the city. Nyssarion recognized Riven's potential and offered to become his mentor. Under Nyssarion's guidance, Riven embarked on a transformative journey, honing his skills and uncovering the mysteries of illusion, enchantment, and divination.

Years of Study in the Temple: With Nyssarion's guidance, Riven eventually gained entry to the hallowed halls of the Temple of Crixalis, the heart of magical learning in KhulKaThul. His years of study were marked by tireless dedication and a thirst for knowledge. He became proficient in a wide array of arcane disciplines, forging his path as a mage of exceptional talent.

Cultural Ambassadorship: Upon completing his training, Riven felt a profound sense of duty to share the magical wonders of KhulKaThul with the world. He established Moja Ektek Oboneb, a store dedicated to preserving and showcasing the cultural heritage of his homeland. His mission was not only to provide access to magical artifacts but also to foster cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.

A Life of Scholarly Pursuits: Beyond his role as a merchant, Riven is deeply committed to scholarly pursuits. He conducts lectures, hosts exhibitions, and shares the stories behind each artifact he sells. His goal is to bridge the gap between KhulKaThul's rich magical traditions and the global community of magic enthusiasts.

Guardian of Arcane Legacy: Riven takes immense pride in his lineage, tracing his ancestry back to a long line of respected mages in KhulKaThul. He views himself as a guardian of their traditions, ensuring that their magical legacies continue to thrive both within and beyond the oasis city.

Education

Initiation and Early Training: Riven's journey into the arcane arts began when he was initiated into the Temple of Crixalis at a relatively young age, a testament to his innate magical talent. He displayed a natural affinity for illusionary magic even in his earliest training days, captivating his instructors with his ability to craft vivid and convincing illusions. Curriculum and Study: Within the hallowed halls of the temple, Riven's education was rigorous and comprehensive. He delved into a wide range of magical disciplines, including enchantment, divination, and, of course, his primary focus, illusion. The temple's curriculum emphasized a deep understanding of magical theory and the practical application of spells.
Mentors and Instructors: Riven was fortunate to have the guidance of esteemed mentors and instructors who recognized his potential. These experienced mages provided him with personalized guidance and advanced training in the arts of illusion. Under their tutelage, he honed his skills, learning not only the intricacies of spellcasting but also the ethics and responsibilities that came with wielding magic.
Specialization in Illusion Magic: As Riven progressed through his studies, it became evident that his true mastery lay in illusionary magic. His illusions were not merely tricks of the eye but intricately woven, multifaceted works of art that could fool even the most discerning observers. His ability to manipulate perception and create lifelike illusions set him apart from his peers.
Challenges and Achievements: Like any aspiring mage, Riven faced challenges and setbacks during his education. He worked diligently to overcome these obstacles, dedicating countless hours to refining his craft. His achievements included creating illusions so convincing that they could mimic voices, personalities, and even intricate environments.
Academic Recognition: Riven's dedication and talent earned him recognition within the temple's academic circles. His work in illusionary magic was acknowledged through awards and accolades, cementing his reputation as a promising young mage.

Failures & Embarrassments

Expulsion and Thievery: Unfortunately, Riven's promising future took a dark turn when he became involved in thievery and misleading activities within the temple. These actions eventually led to his expulsion and banishment from KhulKaThul, marking a tragic end to what could have been a distinguished career within the arcane community.

Intellectual Characteristics

Interests:

Illusionary Magic: Riven's primary area of expertise is creating convincing illusions that manipulate perception and deceive the senses. He takes great joy in crafting intricate and lifelike illusions, pushing the boundaries of what magic can achieve.
Arcane Knowledge: Riven is a dedicated scholar of the arcane arts, constantly seeking to expand his understanding of magical theory and practice. He collects arcane texts, scrolls, and tomes and enjoys uncovering hidden magical secrets.
Artifacts and Relics: Riven has a genuine appreciation for magical artifacts from various cultures and eras. He is interested in the history and significance of each artifact he acquires and often shares their stories with customers.
Cross-Cultural Exchange: Riven's cover story as a cultural ambassador from KhulKaThul reflects a genuine interest in promoting cross-cultural exchange. He values the opportunity to introduce the magical traditions and cultural heritage of his supposed homeland to those in Glacial Falls and beyond.
Strategy and Subterfuge: As the leader of the Thieves Guild, Riven has a strategic mind and a deep understanding of subterfuge and deception. He enjoys planning and orchestrating complex heists and covert operations, always seeking innovative ways to outsmart his adversaries.
Mystery and Intrigue: Riven is naturally drawn to mystery and intrigue, which is reflected in both his double life and his fascination with the unknown. He enjoys unraveling puzzles and uncovering hidden truths, which aligns with his role as a mastermind behind covert activities.
Preservation of Art and Culture: While Riven's dealings with stolen artifacts are questionable, he does have a genuine interest in preserving art and culture. He understands the historical significance of many artifacts and takes care to ensure their integrity, even if their acquisition is less than legal.
Personal Ambitions: Riven's personal ambitions, hidden beneath his secretive persona, drive many of his actions. Whether it's the pursuit of wealth, power, or a hidden agenda, his interests are often intertwined with his overarching goals.
Astronomy: Riven has a fascination with the night sky and celestial bodies. He spends time studying the stars, planets, and constellations, often using his knowledge of celestial patterns in his magical practices.
Rare Spellbooks: Riven is an avid collector of rare and ancient spellbooks. He is always on the lookout for texts that contain unique or forgotten spells, and he considers these books both valuable resources and prized possessions.
Intricate Clockwork Mechanisms: Riven has a penchant for intricate clockwork devices and automata. He enjoys tinkering with these mechanisms as a hobby, finding solace in the precise movements and engineering involved.
Exotic Pets: Despite his secretive nature, Riven has a soft spot for exotic and magical creatures. He keeps a collection of enchanted pets and familiars, each with its own unique abilities and personalities.
Historical Mysteries: Riven is drawn to historical mysteries and unsolved enigmas. He enjoys delving into the past, searching for clues and hidden knowledge that might shed light on ancient secrets.
Potion Brewing: Riven has a talent for potion brewing and alchemy. He often experiments with concoctions and elixirs, seeking to discover new magical brews or enhance existing ones.
Masked Identity: Riven takes great interest in maintaining the secrecy of his true identity. He enjoys adopting various disguises and personas, both as a means of self-preservation and for the thrill of intrigue.
Architectural Marvels: Riven appreciates the artistry of architecture, particularly when it comes to magical structures. He is intrigued by buildings with hidden chambers, concealed passages, and intricate arcane designs.
Art Forgery: In addition to his dealings in stolen artifacts, Riven has a talent for art forgery. He enjoys replicating famous paintings and sculptures, occasionally substituting these for the genuine items he acquires.
Mystic Riddles: Riven is known for his fascination with cryptic riddles and puzzles. He often leaves enigmatic clues and challenges for those who seek to uncover the truth about his activities.

Personality Characteristics

Savvies & Ineptitudes

Strengths (What He's Good At):
Illusionary Magic: Riven excels in illusionary magic, making him a master of creating convincing illusions that manipulate perception and deceive the senses. His magical prowess allows him to craft intricate and lifelike illusions.
Arcane Knowledge: He is a dedicated scholar of the arcane arts, continually expanding his understanding of magical theory and practice. Riven collects arcane texts and tomes, making him well-versed in various schools of magic.
Strategic Thinking: Riven's strategic mind is one of his greatest assets. He can devise intricate plans, adapt to changing circumstances, and orchestrate complex heists and covert operations.
Deception and Subterfuge: Riven's life as a double agent necessitates a talent for deception and subterfuge. He excels at maintaining multiple personas, keeping his true identity hidden, and manipulating others.
Cross-Cultural Exchange: As a supposed cultural ambassador from KhulKaThul, Riven is skilled at promoting cross-cultural exchange and fostering relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Network Building: He has successfully built a network of contacts and alliances, both within Glacial Falls and beyond. These connections provide him with valuable resources, information, and protection.
Artifact Acquisition: Riven's involvement in the Thieves Guild has honed his skills in acquiring valuable artifacts and relics, often through covert means.
Weaknesses (What He's Bad At):
Combat Prowess: While Riven may have some magical combat abilities, he is not a front-line combatant. In a direct physical confrontation, he is at a disadvantage compared to warriors and martial classes.
Physical Strength: Riven's strengths lie in his intellect and magical abilities, not physical strength. He may struggle with physically demanding tasks or feats of strength.
Trust Issues: Due to his secretive nature and involvement in criminal activities, Riven finds it challenging to trust others completely. This may hinder his ability to form deep, genuine relationships.
Impulsiveness: Riven's penchant for intrigue and complexity can sometimes lead him to make impulsive decisions, especially when he encounters puzzles or mysteries he can't resist solving.
Moral Ambiguity: His involvement in illegal activities and hidden agendas may lead to moral conflicts and ethical dilemmas. Riven's actions often blur the lines between right and wrong.
Limited Combat Experience: While he may have some magical combat abilities, Riven's focus on stealth and subterfuge means he likely has limited experience in open combat situations.

Likes & Dislikes

Likes:

Arcane Artifacts: Riven has a deep appreciation for arcane artifacts, especially those with intricate enchantments or historical significance. He takes pleasure in acquiring and studying such objects.
Clockwork Mechanisms: Riven is fascinated by clockwork devices and their intricate workings. He enjoys tinkering with them and admires their precision craftsmanship.
Mysteries and Enigmas: Riven is drawn to mysteries, puzzles, and enigmas. He enjoys solving riddles and uncovering hidden truths, often using his keen intellect to decipher cryptic messages.
Cultural Exchange: Despite his double life, Riven genuinely values cross-cultural exchange. He appreciates learning about different customs, traditions, and magical practices from various regions.
Subtlety and Intrigue: Riven relishes the subtlety of espionage, espionage, and covert operations. He finds satisfaction in the art of deception and the complexities of a well-executed plan.
Exotic Flavors: Riven enjoys exploring a wide range of exotic culinary delights from different cultures. He appreciates fine dining and unusual, flavorful dishes.
Astronomical Phenomena: Riven is captivated by the night sky and enjoys observing celestial events, such as meteor showers, eclipses, and the movements of distant planets. He finds solace in stargazing.
Exotic Tea Blends: Riven takes pleasure in sampling and collecting exotic tea blends from various regions. He enjoys the subtle flavors and aromas of rare and unusual teas.

Dislikes:

Betrayal: Having experienced betrayal in his past, Riven has a strong aversion to disloyalty and treachery. He values trust and loyalty among those he associates with.
Exposure: Riven fears exposure and discovery of his double life. He goes to great lengths to avoid being unmasked, as it could jeopardize his clandestine activities and personal safety.
Unnecessary Violence: Riven dislikes unnecessary violence and prefers subtle, non-lethal methods to achieve his goals. He sees violence as a last resort and only when absolutely necessary.
Oversimplified Solutions: Riven is frustrated by oversimplified or straightforward solutions to complex problems. He prefers intricate and multifaceted approaches that challenge his intellect.
Hubris: Riven has little patience for individuals who display arrogance or overconfidence. He believes that humility and caution are essential traits in his line of work.
Inefficiency: Riven dislikes inefficiency and disorganization. He prefers a well-structured plan and efficient execution of tasks to maximize success and minimize risks.
Loud Fireworks Displays: Riven has an aversion to loud and boisterous fireworks displays. The sudden, explosive sounds disrupt his concentration and make him uneasy.
Hasty Decision-Making: Riven dislikes when individuals make impulsive decisions without careful consideration. He values well-thought-out plans and strategic thinking over rushed choices.

Virtues & Personality perks

Virtues:

Intellect: Riven is exceptionally intelligent and possesses a sharp mind. His ability to analyze complex situations, solve intricate puzzles, and adapt to changing circumstances is a significant virtue.
Resourcefulness: He is highly resourceful, capable of finding creative solutions to challenges and making the most of his surroundings. This resourcefulness aids him in both his arcane studies and clandestine activities.
Determination: Riven demonstrates a strong sense of determination and perseverance, especially when pursuing his goals or protecting his secrets. He is not easily deterred by obstacles or setbacks.
Mastery of Magic: His mastery of illusionary, enchantment, and divination magic is a notable virtue. This magical prowess allows him to manipulate perception and achieve his objectives with finesse.

Perks:

Multilingual: Riven possesses proficiency in multiple languages, making him an effective communicator and allowing him to access a wide range of knowledge and cultures.
Network of Contacts: He has established a diverse and extensive network of contacts and allies, providing him with valuable resources, information, and protection. This network enhances his influence and capabilities.
Double Life: Riven's ability to maintain a double life as a dealer of magical artifacts and a Thieves Guild leader is a significant perk. This duality allows him to operate covertly and gather intelligence from various sources.
Stealth and Subterfuge: He excels in stealth and subterfuge, allowing him to move quietly, avoid detection, and infiltrate secure locations. His proficiency in these skills is invaluable in his covert operations.
Cross-Cultural Knowledge: Riven's appreciation for cross-cultural exchange and his understanding of various customs and traditions serve as a perk, helping him navigate different societies and build rapport with diverse individuals.

Vices & Personality flaws

Vices:

Deception: Riven often resorts to deception and lies to protect his secrets and further his goals. While it serves him well in his double life, it can strain his relationships and trustworthiness.
Greed: His desire for arcane artifacts and magical knowledge can sometimes border on greed. He may prioritize acquiring valuable items over ethical considerations.
Obsession: Riven can become obsessed with solving mysteries and puzzles, to the detriment of other aspects of his life. This obsession can make him single-minded and neglectful of important matters.
Isolation: Due to the need for secrecy, Riven often isolates himself from others, including friends and potential allies. This isolation can lead to loneliness and emotional distance.
Ruthlessness: In his role as a Thieves Guild leader, Riven may resort to ruthless tactics when necessary, which can sometimes involve manipulation, coercion, or even violence.
Paranoia: Riven's fear of exposure and betrayal can sometimes lead to excessive paranoia. He may become overly suspicious of those around him, even when there's no reason to doubt them.
Secretive Nature: His secretive nature can hinder effective communication and collaboration with others, as he often withholds information and keeps people at arm's length.

Flaws:

Impulsivity: Riven's determination can sometimes manifest as impulsivity, causing him to act hastily without considering the full consequences of his actions.
Emotional Detachment: His emotional detachment, born out of necessity for his double life, can make it challenging for him to form deep emotional connections or express genuine feelings.
Stubbornness: Riven can be quite stubborn when he believes he's on the right path. This stubbornness can lead to conflicts with others who have different perspectives.
Risk-Taking: He's prone to taking calculated risks, but there are times when he underestimates the danger of certain situations, putting himself and others at unnecessary risk.
Narrow Focus: Riven's obsession with mysteries and his clandestine activities can result in a narrow focus, causing him to neglect his own well-being and broader life experiences.
Moral Ambiguity: His involvement in covert operations and the theft of artifacts can blur the lines of morality, causing internal conflict about the ethics of his actions.
Trust Issues: Riven's past experiences with betrayal have left him with deep trust issues. It's difficult for him to fully trust anyone, even those close to him.
Complicated Motives: Understanding Riven's true motives can be challenging, even for those who know him well, as he often has complex and layered reasons for his actions.

Personality Quirks

Fidgeting: Riven often plays with jewelery/gems in his hands. Twirling them seemlessly between his fingers. When caught off guard by something he may lose focus and drop the item.

Social

Family Ties

FAMILY TREE NOT AVAILABLE

Mannerisms

Subtle Smirk: In moments of triumph or when he outwits an opponent, Riven may exhibit a subtle, self-satisfied smirk, though he quickly conceals it to maintain his composed facade.
Data Gathering: Riven has a habit of asking probing questions during conversations, often leading people to reveal more than they intended. He uses this technique to gather information discreetly.
Evasive Glances: He may frequently glance away from someone while conversing, as if pondering something distant. This tactic can make it challenging for others to discern his true thoughts.
Lingering Glance: He may give someone a lingering, thoughtful look after they've spoken, as if assessing their words more deeply than he lets on.

Hobbies & Pets

Crystalwing Familiar: A small, ethereal bird-like creature with iridescent, crystalline feathers. It possesses the ability to emit soft, soothing melodies and is highly sought after for its beauty and calming presence.
Shadowbound Panther: A sleek, shadowy panther with obsidian fur and glowing, azure eyes. It can blend seamlessly into the darkness, making it an ideal companion for Riven's secretive activities.
Elemental Fox: A fox infused with elemental magic, such as fire or ice. These creatures can manipulate their respective element and are known for their mischievous yet loyal nature.
Dreamweaver Spider: A spider with iridescent silk that can weave intricate, magical dreamcatchers. It helps protect Riven from psychic intrusions and nightmarish visions.

Current Location

Glacial Falls

Species

Tabaxi

Date of Birth

22 Snowrend

Year of Birth

1411 52 Years old

Current Residence

Glacial Falls

Gender

Male

Eyes

Grey

Skin Tone/Pigmentation

Grey/Black fur

Height

6"1

Weight

165 lbs

Aligned Organization

Thieves Guild

Known Languages

Common, Thieves Cant, Khulkhaan, Elvish, Dwarf, Gnomish, Undercommon