Derick Cason Character in The Shadows Uprising | World Anvil

Derick Cason

Derick was born in 1886, in London, England, with an unwavering passion for history. Raised in a middle-class household, Derick's family had the means to send him to college, where he excelled and graduated with honors in history and archaeology. His fascination with ancient history led him to believe that civilization's age surpassed what was documented in the current history books. Eager to prove his theory, Derick led a university-funded expedition in 1904 to Turkey, driven by rumors of an ancient city called Lagash, A city believed to be nearly ten thousand years old. Discovering this ancient city would validate his beliefs and reshape history..
Accompanied by a team of locals, Derick embarked on a months-long journey deep into the desert, following clues and legends. Along the way, he forged close bonds with his team members. Eventually, their perseverance paid off when they located and unearthed the partially buried ruins of the city. Filled with excitement, they began documenting and excavating their remarkable findings.
However, as their progress continued, unsettling reports started to emerge from Derick's team. They spoke of hearing strange voices and witnessing inexplicable phenomena. Initially dismissing these accounts as mere local superstitions, Derick's skepticism waned when violence erupted among his crew. Madness consumed them, resulting in a horrific massacre that left Derick fortunate to escape with his life, forced to abandon all of the evidence.   Devastated and lost in the desert, Derick's life hung by a thread until he was discovered by traders who saved him from severe dehydration. Nursed back to health, he returned to civilization, only to find that his story was met with disbelief. Discredited, he pleaded his case to his peers in London, but they too doubted his sanity.   Amidst his despair, Derick's encounter took an unexpected turn when he was approached by a man named Richard Richardson. Richard expressed belief in Derick's story and offered to seek justice for his lost expedition team. With little else to lose, Derick agreed to accompany Richardson back to the ruins. During their journey, the two formed a strong friendship. Richard revealed that he was part of a secret society called The Benefactors, dedicated to safeguarding humanity from supernatural threats—an explanation that initially challenged Derick's belief system. However, deep down, he knew that what he had witnessed was indeed real.
Upon reaching the ruins, Derick questioned his sanity as the city seemed to have vanished. But in a display of magic, Richard unveiled the hidden city before Derick's eyes. Richard then shared the true story of the city, revealing his presence there thousands of years ago and how the souls of the city had been trapped by Raahomon's destructive magic. Together, they worked to liberate these trapped souls.   Impressed by Derick's abilities and recognizing his potential, Richard extended an invitation for him to join The Benefactors. Derick accepted, quickly adapting to the group and becoming a loremaster of the unseen world. While he dabbled in magic, his primary focus remained on uncovering the history of the supernatural realm.
Over time, Derick grew disillusioned with the Benefactors and their lack of proactive measures against supernatural threats. His obsession turned toward Raahomon's offspring, whom the Benefactors monitored closely due to their bloodline's history. Believing that more decisive action was required, Derick embarked on unsanctioned missions to assassinate these individuals, resulting in the deaths of at least two dozen. However, his activities eventually came to the attention of the Benefactors, who discovered his actions.   Richardson, devastated by Derick's choices, couldn't bring himself to end his friend's life. Instead, he employed powerful magic to sever Derick's connection to magic and exiled him from the Benefactors. Angry and distraught, Derick still believed his actions were for the greater good. He sought solace in Las Vegas, where he purchased a rundown bar and started a career as a debt tracker for local casinos. Though distasteful, the work kept him going, and he occasionally took on private investigation cases involving supernatural incidents. Alcohol became his coping mechanism as the years passed, and he eventually left the casino work behind, drowning his sorrows at his bar.   As time wore on, Derick's health declined with age, as his severed connection to magic could no longer sustain his youthful vitality. He resigned himself to a solitary death until one day, a Benefactor named Casey Cameron approached him for help and information on Raahomon's remaining children. Initially reluctant, Derick sensed a kindred spirit in Casey, someone who didn't judge him for his past transgressions. Their friendship blossomed quickly, and Casey even aided Richardson in forgiving Derick for his crimes.   Though Derick continued his drinking habits, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. News arrived that Casey had been killed while closing a portal to Memoc's realm atop the Future of America headquarters. However, several months later, Derick was overjoyed to learn that Casey had been rescued from the hellish dimension by a magically ascended being named Lock.
In a surprising turn of events, Casey, along with Lock, who was being punished to exist as a mortal for his interference in Human affairs and rescuing Casey, appeared at Derick's door. Casey confided in Derick, revealing that while only a few months had passed in the outside world, ten years had elapsed for him within Memoc's realm, where he was relentlessly tortured. Seeking a fresh start, Casey bought Derick's bar, paying off his debt, and transformed it into Casey and Able Investigations, a detective agency specializing in supernatural cases in Las Vegas. Derick happily joined them as a consultant, maintaining ownership of the bar's front while assisting in their supernatural investigations.   Derick found himself reborn, surrounded by kindred spirits. Casey, who believed himself possessed by the Demon Memoc and burdened by the atrocities committed in that state. Lock, a magically ascended being punished to experience the hardships of humanity, seeking guidance. Abel, Casey's brother, searching for his place amidst it all. And eventually, Zen, a magically created being grappling with the trials and tribulations of humanity. They all discovered great wisdom in Derick and his personal mistakes, forming a makeshift family of their own.   Derick worked alongside of Casey, striving for his own redemption until one case they took on would lead to fatal consequences for Derick. Casey had rescued a young boy named David from a demon attack that appeared to have killed his entire family. While Casey, Zen and Lock investigated further Derick was entrusted with watching over the boy but unbeknownst to them, the boy was actually under the influence of The Shadow Entity, compelling him to kill his family. In a moment of vulnerability, the boy, influenced by the entity, slit Derick's throat from behind, ending his life.   Casey and the investigations team were devastated by the senseless loss of their friend and ally. In honor of his passing and to commemorate all the good he had done his road to redemption, Derick was given a Benefactors funeral and laid to rest, his legacy forever etched in their hearts.

Mental characteristics

Accomplishments & Achievements

Archaeological Discovery

Derick Cason's university-funded expedition to Turkey in 1904 led to a significant archaeological discovery—the unearthing of the ancient city of Lagash. This discovery shed light on a previously unknown civilization, dating back nearly ten thousand years. Derick's efforts in locating and documenting the ruins contributed to expanding the understanding of ancient history and challenging existing historical timelines.  

Loremaster of the Unseen World

Derick's association with the Benefactors and his dedication to studying the supernatural realm enabled him to become a respected loremaster. Through extensive research and firsthand experiences, he accumulated a vast knowledge of supernatural history, creatures, and artifacts. His expertise has been instrumental in guiding others and providing valuable insights into the workings of the unseen world.  

Unsanctioned Missions

Although controversial, Derick's unsanctioned missions to eliminate Raahomon's offspring demonstrated his unwavering determination to protect humanity from supernatural threats. Despite the ethical complexities surrounding his actions, he successfully executed missions to neutralize a significant number of individuals who posed potential dangers to society.  

Founding Casey and Able Investigations

Derick played a crucial role in the establishment of Casey and Able Investigations, a detective agency specializing in supernatural cases. His guidance, experience, and understanding of the unseen world contributed to the agency's success in unraveling mysteries, protecting the innocent, and combating supernatural evil in Las Vegas.  

Mentor and Guide

Derick's journey of personal growth and redemption has allowed him to serve as a mentor and guide to those struggling with their own supernatural experiences. He has provided invaluable wisdom, advice, and support to individuals such as Casey, Lock, Able, and Zen, helping them navigate their own paths and find solace amidst the challenges they face.  

Formation of a Found Family

Derick's efforts in fostering unity and a sense of family among his fellow supernatural investigators have been instrumental in creating a cohesive and supportive group. Through his influence, a makeshift family was formed, allowing each member to find understanding, acceptance, and strength in one another. This tight-knit bond has proven essential in facing and overcoming numerous supernatural threats.   Derick Cason's accomplishments and achievements span archaeological discoveries, the acquisition of extensive knowledge of the unseen world, the successful execution of unsanctioned missions, the founding of a renowned detective agency, and his role as a mentor and guide. His contributions have not only expanded understanding in the fields of history and the supernatural but have also empowered and protected individuals within his found family and the wider community.

Failures & Embarrassments

Expedition Massacre

One of the most significant failures in Derick Cason's life was the expedition massacre that occurred during his search for the ancient city of Lagash. Despite his leadership and determination, the expedition took a tragic turn as his team members succumbed to madness and violence, resulting in a devastating loss of life. Derick barely escaped with his own life, leaving behind crucial evidence and feeling responsible for the failure to protect his team.

Discredited Reputation

Following the traumatic events of the expedition, Derick's reputation suffered greatly. No one believed his accounts of supernatural encounters and dismissed his claims as delusional. His peers and colleagues, including those in the academic community, rejected his experiences, leading to his dismissal from the university and tarnishing his professional standing. Derick endured the embarrassment of being labeled a madman and struggled to regain credibility.  

Unsanctioned Assassinations

In his disillusionment with the Benefactors' passive approach, Derick took matters into his own hands, executing unsanctioned missions to eliminate Raahomon's offspring. While driven by what he believed to be the greater good, his actions crossed ethical boundaries and resulted in the deaths of at least two dozen individuals. These unsanctioned assassinations were discovered by the Benefactors, leading to his expulsion from the organization and further staining his reputation.

Severance from Magic

As a consequence of his actions and betrayal of the Benefactors' trust, Derick was stripped of his magical abilities through powerful magic wielded by Richard Richardson. The severance from magic served as a public reminder of his fall from grace and further isolated him from the supernatural world he had once been a part of.  

Moral Ambiguity and Remorse

Over time, Derick came to recognize the moral complexities of his choices and actions. He experienced profound remorse for the lives he took and the consequences of his unsanctioned missions. Derick carries the weight of his failures and the guilt of his past, constantly grappling with the shades of gray in his pursuit of protecting humanity. These internal struggles serve as a reminder of his past mistakes and failures.

Morality & Philosophy

Redemption and Personal Growth

Derick Cason's journey is marked by a strong belief in redemption and personal growth. Initially driven by a sense of righteousness, he made regrettable choices in his pursuit of protecting humanity from supernatural threats. However, as he faced the consequences of his actions and experienced the shades of gray in the world, Derick became remorseful and sought to make amends. He actively works to redeem himself by assisting others, learning from his past mistakes, and guiding those around him.  

Moral Complexity

Derick understands the moral complexity inherent in the supernatural realm and the choices one must make when confronting it. He recognizes that there are no easy answers and that sometimes difficult decisions must be made to protect the greater good. Through his experiences, he has learned to navigate the intricate ethical dilemmas posed by the supernatural and strives to find a balance between safeguarding humanity and preserving individual lives.  

Preservation of Knowledge

Derick places great importance on the preservation and pursuit of knowledge. As a historian and archaeologist, he believes that understanding the past is crucial for shaping the present and future. Derick actively seeks to uncover hidden truths, explore ancient civilizations, and unravel the mysteries of the unseen world. He views knowledge as a powerful tool for enlightenment and a means to better comprehend the complexities of the supernatural realm.  

Acceptance and Understanding

Derick advocates for acceptance and understanding when it comes to individuals touched by the supernatural. Having witnessed the struggles and internal conflicts faced by those affected by supernatural forces, he recognizes the need to approach them with empathy and compassion. Derick strives to bridge the gap between the human and supernatural realms, promoting dialogue and mutual understanding to foster harmony and cooperation.  

Free Will and Choice

Derick strongly believes in the power of free will and the importance of personal choice. Despite the influences of the supernatural realm and the pressures of his past, he acknowledges that every individual possesses the ability to shape their own destiny. Derick encourages others to exercise their agency and make informed decisions, emphasizing that one's actions and choices define their character and the path they tread.  

Unity and Found Family

Derick values the power of unity and the concept of a found family. Through his encounters with fellow supernatural investigators, such as Casey, Lock, Able, and Zen, Derick has come to appreciate the strength that can be found in shared experiences and mutual support. He believes in fostering a sense of belonging, where individuals can find solace, understanding, and companionship in each other, transcending their differences and forming unbreakable bonds.

Social

Hobbies & Pets

Derick Cason, being a driven and focused individual, does not have much time for pets or traditional hobbies. His passion for history and the pursuit of supernatural knowledge occupies a significant portion of his life.  

Pet Companionship

While Derick does not have a pet of his own due to his demanding lifestyle, he has a soft spot for animals.  

Appreciation of Artifacts

Derick's passion for history and archaeology can be seen as a hobby in itself. He derives great enjoyment from examining ancient artifacts, deciphering their significance, and unraveling the stories they hold. The process of studying and analyzing these historical relics is a deeply fulfilling and engaging pursuit for him.  

Research and Reading

Derick's love for knowledge extends beyond his professional pursuits. Engaging in extensive research and reading, both related to history and the supernatural, could be considered a hobby for him. Exploring ancient texts, studying historical accounts, and delving into occult literature are ways he immerses himself in his areas of interest.  

Intellectual Pursuits

Derick's dedication to unraveling the mysteries of the past and the supernatural can also be seen as a hobby. He engages in intellectual discussions, participates in debates, and attends academic conferences or gatherings related to his fields of expertise. These activities provide intellectual stimulation and opportunities to exchange ideas with fellow scholars and enthusiasts.  

Quiet Reflection

Derick values moments of solitude and introspection. Engaging in quiet reflection, whether in nature or within the confines of his own thoughts, allows him to recharge and gain clarity. These moments of contemplation serve as a personal hobby, enabling him to process his experiences and gain fresh insights.   While Derick's life is primarily driven by his professional pursuits and quest for knowledge, he finds solace and fulfillment in the activities and interests associated with his passion for history, artifacts, research, and intellectual engagement.
Current Status
Deceased
Species
Honorary & Occupational Titles
Lead Archeologist   Benefactor Loremaster   Rogue Benefactor
Life
1876 AD 2006 AD 130 years old
Circumstances of Death
Murdered
Birthplace
London England
Place of Death
Casey and Abel Investigations
Children
Sex
Male
Eyes
Hazel
Hair
Brown
Height
6,1
Quotes & Catchphrases
"The line between myth and reality blurs when confronted with the supernatural. Our duty is to navigate that blurred line and bring clarity to the unknown."
Aligned Organization
Other Affiliations

MONSTER OF THE WEEK STATS

 
Playbook: The Expert
 
Name: Derick Cason
 

Stats:

 
  • Charm: 0
  • Cool: -1
  • Sharp: +2
  • Tough: 0
  • Weird: +1
  • Moves:

      Theorize: Derick can spend some time researching and rolling +Sharp. On a 10+, he gets to hold 2, and on a 7-9, he holds 1. He can spend his hold during the mystery to ask the Keeper questions about the monster or mystery at hand.   Trusty Sidearm: Derick always carries a trusty sidearm, granting him +1 harm when he uses it.   Haven: Derick has a safe location, which is his bar-turned-detective agency. It provides basic necessities, including a place to rest, medical supplies, and some investigative tools.  

    Gear

      Trusty Sidearm: Derick carries a reliable handgun, giving him the ability to deal harm in dangerous situations.   Investigative Tools: Derick has an assortment of tools such as a flashlight, camera, measuring tape, and notepad, allowing him to investigate and document evidence.   Ancient Texts: Derick possesses a collection of ancient texts related to the supernatural, providing him with valuable information and insights into the creatures they face.