Lancelot Cole Longhurst
Lancelot Cole Longhurst hails from the esteemed Longhurst family, one of the old noble houses of Alada, tracing their lineage back to the first kings of Eldwell. Though the family’s influence has waned in the modern era, their name still carries weight in matters of industry and technological advancement. Born in 1838 AF on Rookhelm Island, Lancelot was raised in the midst of trade, innovation, and the bustling docks of one of Eldwell’s most industrialized districts. Unlike many of his aristocratic peers, Lancelot was not content with the leisure of nobility and instead pursued a career in engineering, dedicating himself to the art of mechanical innovation.
Longhurst’s passion for engineering led him to Vanguard Shipworks, the premier shipbuilding enterprise of Rookhelm. Through strategic investments and sheer talent, he quickly rose through the ranks, securing himself a position on the Directors’ Council and later becoming Head of Engineering. Under his leadership, Vanguard Shipworks has spearheaded cutting-edge alchemical and artifice-based ship design, focusing on both military and commercial vessels. His work has been instrumental in advancing hybrid ships, seamlessly blending traditional sailing methods with electrum-powered propulsion.
Lancelot’s contributions have earned him a reputation as a forward-thinking industrialist, one willing to challenge traditional shipbuilding techniques in favor of innovation. However, his ambition is not without controversy—his push for mechanized automation has drawn criticism from traditional shipwright guilds, who fear his designs could disrupt the industry.
A Passion for Speed & Innovation
Beyond his work in shipbuilding, Lancelot is also a pioneer in automated carriages, an experimental technology still in its infancy. His passion for these self-propelled vehicles has led him to personally finance prototype races, testing their capabilities across the rugged terrain of Rookhelm Island. Though still considered impractical for widespread use, these prototypes mark the early stages of what Lancelot hopes will be a revolution in transportation.
Personal Life & Relationships
Despite his professional successes, Longhurst’s personal life has been less stable. Recently divorced, he has returned to the social circles of Rookhelm, his presence at high-profile galas and industrial gatherings making him a sought-after guest. Though his marriage ended amicably, it is widely rumored that his relentless focus on work and ambition played a role in the separation.
Despite his noble status, Lancelot is surprisingly hands-on with his projects. He spends hours in the workshops of Vanguard Shipworks, personally overseeing the construction of new vessels, covered in soot and oil. His sapphire-blue eyes and golden hair make him a striking figure, and his tanned skin tells the story of a man who prefers action over idleness.
Hobbies & Interests
Lancelot is an avid archer, often retreating to private hunting grounds to practice his marksmanship. For him, archery is both a sport and a form of meditation, a rare moment of solitude in an otherwise fast-paced life. He is also deeply invested in mechanical racing, not just designing automated carriages but also personally competing in races, pushing the limits of his own engineering prowess.
Beliefs & Philosophy
A devout believer in Solis, Lancelot finds comfort in the faith’s ideals of renewal and perseverance. He sees technology and innovation as the divine extension of human potential, believing that progress is not just a pursuit, but a duty. His philosophy is simple—“The world does not wait for those who resist change.” This belief has shaped his entire approach to life, business, and innovation.
Comments