Alexander Tehnblade
Duke Alexander Tehnblade (a.k.a. Devil of Tehnblade)
Born the runt of his family with infernal traits, Alexander was given the potential for wrath to match. As the Duke, he's know for his ruthless drive for power and control, witch reveals the deep-seated fear and respect from the people. Standing side by side with his only remaining family, Malcolm Tehnblade, the two of them lead the Dukedom where their predecesors could not. Making sure everyone recognizes the new Era for the Dukedom.
Physical Description
Body Features
Alexander stands tall and imposing with a muscular, agile frame. His shoulders are broad, and his limbs are powerful. His body is marked by numerous scars. He moves with fluidity and dresses in finely crafted dark clothes that allow for ease of movement.
Facial Features
Alexander Tehnblade’s face tells tales of a tumultuous life, marked by sharp angles and intense expressions. His indigo skin sets him apart while dark, slightly curved horns frame his face. His vivid orange eyes, perpetually glowing with an inner fire, seem to pierce through those who dare meet his gaze, always keen and calculating. High cheekbones and a strong jawline give his face a well-defined structure. A faint scar runs from his left eyebrow to his cheek, a rough edge to his otherwise noble visage, a memento from one of many battles.
Identifying Characteristics
Alexander's existence itself is hard to miss. He's got blue skin, a trait unique to a certain breed fo tieflings known for their excessive lack of self control and burgeoning potential for evil.
Mental characteristics
Personal history
Alexander Tehnblade, a name whispered with both fear and morbid curiosity in the halls of power and the streets of the dukedom. The youngest son of Elysion Tehnblade, the former Duke, his rise to infamy is shrouded in blood and mystery.
Rumors began to swirl when Alexander returned home after years of adventuring, accompanied by a striking woman with crimson skin and eyes like blue flames. They said she was a tiefling of an ancient lineage, powerful and enigmatic. For a brief period, Alexander seemed to have found solace, a fleeting happiness that starkly contrasted his tumultuous past.
But then, one night, the manor was drenched in blood. Alexander emerged from the carnage alone, his lover gone without a trace. The people say she vanished, some whisper she was taken, and others believe she was killed. No one truly knows what happened to her, only that Alexander's return was marked by tragedy.
In a frenzy of violence, Alexander slaughtered everyone in the manor, sparing only his brother, Alistair. His mother, his sisters, even the knights who served the family were not spared. The details of that night are obscured by the shadows of the manor’s walls, but the aftermath was undeniable: the Tehnblade family, once a symbol of stability and power, was reduced to two survivors.
The citizens of the dukedom speak of the event in hushed tones, attributing it to madness, revenge, or dark magic. Some say Alexander was driven insane by the disappearance of his lover, others claim he was possessed by demonic forces, and a few believe he discovered a terrible secret about his lineage. The most prevalent rumor is that he was avenging a grievous wrong done to him and his mysterious lover, but without proof, these remain mere speculations.
What is known is that Alexander and Alistair emerged from the ordeal unscathed, manipulating the evidence to portray the massacre as a result of blood magic gone awry. They convinced the royal guard and swindled their way through the ensuing trials. Their cunning led them to stand before Emperor Terrian, who, despite the protests and suspicions of other nobles, granted Alexander the title of Duke of Tehnblade with Alistair as his advisor.
Emperor Terrian's laughter at the council is still remembered, as is the attempted intervention by Nephia, the Moon Sovereign, who sought to bring justice for the unspeakable acts. Yet, the pragmatic Entieese withdrew her support, knowing the strategic importance of Tehnblade under Alexander’s control.
Thus, Alexander Tehnblade remains the head of his family, a living legend of both horror and might. The citizens know he committed atrocities, they sense the malevolence that surrounds him, but they lack the evidence to condemn him. They watch and wait, knowing that one day, the truth may surface, and the monster that is Duke Tehnblade will face the justice he evaded.
Rumors began to swirl when Alexander returned home after years of adventuring, accompanied by a striking woman with crimson skin and eyes like blue flames. They said she was a tiefling of an ancient lineage, powerful and enigmatic. For a brief period, Alexander seemed to have found solace, a fleeting happiness that starkly contrasted his tumultuous past.
But then, one night, the manor was drenched in blood. Alexander emerged from the carnage alone, his lover gone without a trace. The people say she vanished, some whisper she was taken, and others believe she was killed. No one truly knows what happened to her, only that Alexander's return was marked by tragedy.
In a frenzy of violence, Alexander slaughtered everyone in the manor, sparing only his brother, Alistair. His mother, his sisters, even the knights who served the family were not spared. The details of that night are obscured by the shadows of the manor’s walls, but the aftermath was undeniable: the Tehnblade family, once a symbol of stability and power, was reduced to two survivors.
The citizens of the dukedom speak of the event in hushed tones, attributing it to madness, revenge, or dark magic. Some say Alexander was driven insane by the disappearance of his lover, others claim he was possessed by demonic forces, and a few believe he discovered a terrible secret about his lineage. The most prevalent rumor is that he was avenging a grievous wrong done to him and his mysterious lover, but without proof, these remain mere speculations.
What is known is that Alexander and Alistair emerged from the ordeal unscathed, manipulating the evidence to portray the massacre as a result of blood magic gone awry. They convinced the royal guard and swindled their way through the ensuing trials. Their cunning led them to stand before Emperor Terrian, who, despite the protests and suspicions of other nobles, granted Alexander the title of Duke of Tehnblade with Alistair as his advisor.
Emperor Terrian's laughter at the council is still remembered, as is the attempted intervention by Nephia, the Moon Sovereign, who sought to bring justice for the unspeakable acts. Yet, the pragmatic Entieese withdrew her support, knowing the strategic importance of Tehnblade under Alexander’s control.
Thus, Alexander Tehnblade remains the head of his family, a living legend of both horror and might. The citizens know he committed atrocities, they sense the malevolence that surrounds him, but they lack the evidence to condemn him. They watch and wait, knowing that one day, the truth may surface, and the monster that is Duke Tehnblade will face the justice he evaded.
Accomplishments & Achievements
Having witnessed the western pass firsthand and knowing its treacherous paths intimately, Alexander funded the construction of the largest adventurers' guild in the Dukedom, strategically located in the center of the pass. This enormous guildhall not only serves as a base for adventurers but also houses all who work there, with enough rooms and space to comfortably accommodate over a hundred adventurers at any given time. This hub of activity has transformed the western pass into one of the most lucrative centers for adventuring work, with hundreds of adventurers moving in and out weekly.
In addition to his strategic investments, Alexander personally subjugated numerous criminals and monsters, not merely as a display of strength but as a calculated move to instill fear in the populace. By maintaining and amplifying rumors of his ferocity, he ensures a pervasive dread that keeps people in check.
In addition to his strategic investments, Alexander personally subjugated numerous criminals and monsters, not merely as a display of strength but as a calculated move to instill fear in the populace. By maintaining and amplifying rumors of his ferocity, he ensures a pervasive dread that keeps people in check.
Failures & Embarrassments
Despite his achievements, Alexander Tehnblade has little to no diplomatic acumen, leaving such matters entirely to his brother. However, by the time they agreed to this division of labor, Alexander had already made a formidable enemy in Duke Lerium Greyfall. His relations with the Duke of Scalehusk are precariously strained, teetering on the edge of conflict. The tension is so severe that it threatens to ignite a vassal war, though the Emperor's intervention prevents such an escalation.
Mental Trauma
Alexander Tehnblade's life has been deeply scarred by a series of traumatic events that have shaped his psyche and fueled his actions. His earliest trauma stems from his childhood, marked by the scornful looks of his half-siblings and the fear in the eyes of those around him. The realization that he was different, a tiefling with indigo skin and orange eyes, isolated him within his own family. The constant whispers and the lack of acceptance from his so-called mother instilled a profound sense of alienation and self-doubt. These formative experiences planted the seeds of his deep-seated insecurity and anger.
The most significant trauma, however, came from the loss of his lover, Glory. Alexander's father, in a moment of panic, urged him to flee with her, revealing the inability to protect him or his mother. This revelation shattered Alexander's already fragile sense of security. The subsequent disappearance of Glory, presumed dead, plunged him into a vortex of madness and despair. He ran through the town, searching desperately, only to be met with silence and indifference. This abandonment and the perceived betrayal by his father exacerbated his feelings of worthlessness and rage.
Alexander has never resolved these traumas; instead, they fester within him, driving his actions and decisions. His relentless quest for power and control is a direct response to his early feelings of helplessness and rejection. By subjugating criminals and monsters, he projects his inner turmoil outward, using fear to maintain his grip on power. His violent outbursts and the brutal massacre of his family were fueled by his unresolved anger and desire for retribution. In his mind, if he could not have the acceptance and love he craved, he would ensure that everyone feared and respected him instead.
Alexander's trauma responses manifest in his need for control and his intolerance for dissent. He is prone to violent reactions when his authority is challenged, a reflection of the deep wounds left by his childhood and the loss of Glory. His inability to engage in diplomacy and his reliance on his brother for political matters further highlight his struggle to connect and trust others. The façade of the fearsome Duke Tehnblade is a mask for the wounded, traumatized individual beneath, whose actions are a constant battle against the demons of his past.
The most significant trauma, however, came from the loss of his lover, Glory. Alexander's father, in a moment of panic, urged him to flee with her, revealing the inability to protect him or his mother. This revelation shattered Alexander's already fragile sense of security. The subsequent disappearance of Glory, presumed dead, plunged him into a vortex of madness and despair. He ran through the town, searching desperately, only to be met with silence and indifference. This abandonment and the perceived betrayal by his father exacerbated his feelings of worthlessness and rage.
Alexander has never resolved these traumas; instead, they fester within him, driving his actions and decisions. His relentless quest for power and control is a direct response to his early feelings of helplessness and rejection. By subjugating criminals and monsters, he projects his inner turmoil outward, using fear to maintain his grip on power. His violent outbursts and the brutal massacre of his family were fueled by his unresolved anger and desire for retribution. In his mind, if he could not have the acceptance and love he craved, he would ensure that everyone feared and respected him instead.
Alexander's trauma responses manifest in his need for control and his intolerance for dissent. He is prone to violent reactions when his authority is challenged, a reflection of the deep wounds left by his childhood and the loss of Glory. His inability to engage in diplomacy and his reliance on his brother for political matters further highlight his struggle to connect and trust others. The façade of the fearsome Duke Tehnblade is a mask for the wounded, traumatized individual beneath, whose actions are a constant battle against the demons of his past.
Intellectual Characteristics
Duke Alexander's mind buzzes with constant activity, always a few steps ahead to avoid being caught off guard. Whether he's facing a monster or navigating the politics of his manor and duchy, he excels at staying ahead of the game, never allowing himself to be at a disadvantage.
Beyond his strategically wired brain, his childhood sharpened his ability to see into the depths of people's souls, understanding what makes them tick. He reads mannerisms, body language, and the nuances in their voices, turning everything into a tool for manipulation. Every word he speaks, every subtle movement, is designed to keep him in control, carefully guiding reactions and opinions. Though he struggles with formal diplomacy, his sharp instincts and learned skills fill the gap, ensuring his grip on power remains unbreakable.
Beyond his strategically wired brain, his childhood sharpened his ability to see into the depths of people's souls, understanding what makes them tick. He reads mannerisms, body language, and the nuances in their voices, turning everything into a tool for manipulation. Every word he speaks, every subtle movement, is designed to keep him in control, carefully guiding reactions and opinions. Though he struggles with formal diplomacy, his sharp instincts and learned skills fill the gap, ensuring his grip on power remains unbreakable.
Morality & Philosophy
Alexander Tehnblade's sense of right and wrong is shaped by his traumatic past and his unyielding quest for power. His moral compass is skewed, intertwining control and retribution. To him, strength and fear are the real currencies in a world of betrayal and suffering. He believes any action that secures his power and eliminates threats is justified, no matter the moral cost. This ruthless pragmatism leads him to commit acts others might see as atrocities, but he views them as essential for maintaining order and asserting his dominance.
Alexander lives by a survival-of-the-fittest mentality. He sees the world as a brutal place where only the strong survive. This belief isn't just about his experiences; it's a principle guiding his every move. He feels that those who can't defend themselves don't deserve mercy. This philosophy extends to his rule, where he uses fear and brutality to keep people in line, convinced that a controlled society is the only way to prevent chaos and ensure stability.
Yet, there's a contradiction in Alexander's philosophy. His harsh actions stem from a desire to protect those he cares about, even if his methods are extreme. Losing his lover, Glory, and feeling abandoned have led him to see vulnerability as a weakness. He tries to eliminate it in himself and others, creating an environment where only the strong can thrive. This mix of protection and domination makes his moral landscape complex, driven by both safeguarding and a thirst for power.
Alexander lives by a survival-of-the-fittest mentality. He sees the world as a brutal place where only the strong survive. This belief isn't just about his experiences; it's a principle guiding his every move. He feels that those who can't defend themselves don't deserve mercy. This philosophy extends to his rule, where he uses fear and brutality to keep people in line, convinced that a controlled society is the only way to prevent chaos and ensure stability.
Yet, there's a contradiction in Alexander's philosophy. His harsh actions stem from a desire to protect those he cares about, even if his methods are extreme. Losing his lover, Glory, and feeling abandoned have led him to see vulnerability as a weakness. He tries to eliminate it in himself and others, creating an environment where only the strong can thrive. This mix of protection and domination makes his moral landscape complex, driven by both safeguarding and a thirst for power.
Taboos
Despite his ruthless nature and skewed moral compass, Alexander Tehnblade holds certain actions and behaviors as taboo, boundaries he himself would never cross. One of these is the use of mind control or enchantment magic to manipulate others. Alexander believes that true power lies in genuine fear and respect, not in artificially altering someone's will. To him, forcing someone’s mind robs the individual of their agency and diminishes the respect they might have earned through more direct means. This aversion stems from his own experiences with manipulation and betrayal, making him detest any form of coercion that strips a person of their free will.
Another significant taboo for Alexander is the harming of children. Despite his many violent acts, he draws a firm line when it comes to the innocent and defenseless, particularly the young. This boundary is rooted in his own troubled childhood and the sense of vulnerability he felt. He believes that children should be protected and allowed to grow into their strength, not prematurely exposed to the harsh realities of the world. This is one area where his otherwise brutal philosophy softens, revealing a vestige of the compassion he once sought for himself. This principle also extends to ensuring that the environments within his control, particularly the towns and villages in Tehnblade, are safe and stable places for children to live and thrive.
Another significant taboo for Alexander is the harming of children. Despite his many violent acts, he draws a firm line when it comes to the innocent and defenseless, particularly the young. This boundary is rooted in his own troubled childhood and the sense of vulnerability he felt. He believes that children should be protected and allowed to grow into their strength, not prematurely exposed to the harsh realities of the world. This is one area where his otherwise brutal philosophy softens, revealing a vestige of the compassion he once sought for himself. This principle also extends to ensuring that the environments within his control, particularly the towns and villages in Tehnblade, are safe and stable places for children to live and thrive.
Personality Characteristics
Motivation
Alexander Tehnblade is driven by a relentless quest for power and control. His traumatic past has instilled in him a deep need to assert dominance and ensure that he is never vulnerable again. He seeks to maintain and expand his influence over Tehnblade and beyond, using fear and strength as his primary tools. The loss of his lover, Glory, and the betrayals he has faced fuel his desire for retribution and validation. He is determined to prove that he is the greatest blade of Tehnblade, not just to his father but to the entire kingdom. This motivation pushes him to constantly seek ways to fortify his position, subjugate his enemies, and leave an indelible mark on the legacy of his family.
Savvies & Ineptitudes
Savvies
Alexander is highly skilled in combat, particularly in the use of blades. His strategic mind allows him to outmaneuver opponents both in battle and in his dealings with others. He is also adept at survival in harsh environments, having spent years navigating the treacherous western pass of Tehnblade. His understanding of fear and manipulation makes him a master of psychological warfare.Ineptitudes
Despite his many strengths, Alexander is inept at diplomacy and social niceties. He has little patience for the subtle art of negotiation, often relying on his brother to handle such matters. His cooking skills are virtually nonexistent, and he has a "black thumb" when it comes to caring for plants, often killing them despite his best efforts.Likes & Dislikes
Likes
Alexander has a deep appreciation for fine weaponry and the craftsmanship that goes into creating them. He enjoys the thrill of the hunt and the satisfaction of a well-executed plan. He also finds solace in the quiet moments spent honing his skills, whether through training or meditative practice.Dislikes
He has a strong aversion to weakness and indecision, both in himself and others. He despises deceit, though he himself is not above manipulation. The laughter and camaraderie he once craved now irritate him, a reminder of the acceptance he never fully received. He also detests diplomatic events, finding them tedious and insincere.Virtues & Personality perks
Alexander possesses a commendable compassion, though it is reserved for those few who manage to earn his trust and respect. He is fiercely loyal to those he cares about, willing to go to great lengths to protect them. His determination and perseverance are qualities that inspire both fear and admiration.
Vices & Personality flaws
One of Alexander’s most prominent flaws is his insatiable lust for power and control. This extends to a literal sense of lust, where he uses relationships to assert dominance and fill the void left by his past traumas. Beyond his indulgence in carnal pleasures, his ruthless nature and disregard often alienate those around him, creating a barrier to genuine connections.
Personality Quirks
He also has a peculiar ritual of tracing the scar on his face whenever he is deep in thought or making a difficult decision. Additionally, he tends to speak in short, clipped sentences when angry, a stark contrast to his usual calculated and measured tone.
Social
Reign
Alexander Tehnblade has driven significant changes in Tehnblade. His relentless push for modernization has led to both notable improvements and controversial shifts. One of his key achievements is the expansion of the region's infrastructure. Under his leadership, roads connecting the western mountain pass to the rest of the duchy have been extensively upgraded, easing travel for merchants and adventurers alike. This boost in trade has strengthened Tehnblade's economic stability. The grand adventurers' guildhall, built in the heart of the pass, symbolizes his vision, drawing a steady flow of adventurers and merchants and creating a thriving local economy.
Alexander has also heavily invested in military capabilities. He established fortified outposts along the most dangerous stretches of the western pass, staffed with well-trained soldiers and equipped with the latest weaponry. These fortifications have significantly reduced the threat of monsters and bandits, ensuring the safety of travelers and traders. The improved security has allowed more efficient mining operations, further increasing the duchy’s wealth.
In his quest for a stronger, more modern Tehnblade, Alexander has discarded several old traditions he saw as outdated. The annual Harvest Festival was replaced with a militaristic event celebrating the region's martial prowess and strategic importance. This change has divided the populace; some appreciate the new focus on strength and security, while others mourn the loss of cultural festivities that once united the community.
Alexander's reforms aim at increasing efficiency and control. He introduced a rigorous taxation system to support his ambitious projects and established a network of informants and enforcers to maintain order and suppress dissent. These measures have strengthened his power but also created an atmosphere of fear and suspicion among the people.
The people's opinion of Alexander is deeply divided. Many admire his strength and the tangible improvements he has brought to the duchy. Enhanced security and economic prosperity are undeniable benefits that have improved the quality of life for many. However, his ruthless methods and the loss of cherished traditions have also sown discontent. There is a pervasive sense of unease, with some viewing him as a necessary force for progress and others seeing him as a tyrant who cares little for the cultural and emotional well-being of his subjects.
Alexander has also heavily invested in military capabilities. He established fortified outposts along the most dangerous stretches of the western pass, staffed with well-trained soldiers and equipped with the latest weaponry. These fortifications have significantly reduced the threat of monsters and bandits, ensuring the safety of travelers and traders. The improved security has allowed more efficient mining operations, further increasing the duchy’s wealth.
In his quest for a stronger, more modern Tehnblade, Alexander has discarded several old traditions he saw as outdated. The annual Harvest Festival was replaced with a militaristic event celebrating the region's martial prowess and strategic importance. This change has divided the populace; some appreciate the new focus on strength and security, while others mourn the loss of cultural festivities that once united the community.
Alexander's reforms aim at increasing efficiency and control. He introduced a rigorous taxation system to support his ambitious projects and established a network of informants and enforcers to maintain order and suppress dissent. These measures have strengthened his power but also created an atmosphere of fear and suspicion among the people.
The people's opinion of Alexander is deeply divided. Many admire his strength and the tangible improvements he has brought to the duchy. Enhanced security and economic prosperity are undeniable benefits that have improved the quality of life for many. However, his ruthless methods and the loss of cherished traditions have also sown discontent. There is a pervasive sense of unease, with some viewing him as a necessary force for progress and others seeing him as a tyrant who cares little for the cultural and emotional well-being of his subjects.
Family Ties
Alexander Tehnblade's only remaining family member is his brother, Lucian Tehnblade. Lucian serves as Alexander's advisor and handles the diplomatic aspects of the duchy that Alexander himself struggles with. The brothers share a complex relationship, marked by a blend of mutual respect, dependency, and underlying tension. While Alexander values Lucian's strategic mind and relies on his diplomatic skills, there is an unspoken strain stemming from their shared dark past and the brutal path they have both walked. Despite this, they present a united front to the outside world, understanding that their combined strengths are crucial to maintaining their grip on power.
Social Aptitude
Alexander possesses a unique form of charisma, rooted more in intimidation and presence than traditional charm. His confidence, often bordering on arrogance, is acutely aware of the fear he inspires. This gives him a commanding presence, though it tends to alienate rather than endear. He is predominantly introverted, preferring solitude or the company of a select few over large social gatherings. His etiquette is rigid and formal, reflecting his need for control and order in all interactions.
Mannerisms
When interacting with others, Alexander maintains a cold, calculating demeanor. He has a habit of tilting his head slightly when listening, as if weighing every word. His eyes remain sharply focused on the speaker, rarely blinking, which can be unnerving. He frequently taps his fingers on surfaces when deep in thought, and his speech is punctuated by deliberate pauses, giving the impression that he is always choosing his words with precision.
Hobbies & Pets
Alexander has no pets, viewing them as unnecessary distractions. However, he has a few private hobbies. An avid swordsman, he spends hours practicing and refining his techniques, finding it both a practical skill and a meditative practice. He also has a secret passion for chess, enjoying the strategic depth of the game. He occasionally plays against Lucian, using the matches as both a mental exercise and a subtle power play.
Speech
Alexander's voice is deep and resonant, often carrying an edge of authority and menace. He speaks with a clipped, precise accent that leaves little room for misinterpretation. His dialect is formal, reflecting his noble upbringing, but there is a harshness that betrays his underlying aggression. His common phrases include direct, uncompromising commands and cutting remarks reflecting his disdain for incompetence. Compliments are rare and usually veiled in harsh truths, while his insults are sharp and direct. His farewells are curt, often just a nod or a terse "dismissed," and his swearing, when it occurs, is low and intense, reflecting the full weight of his anger.
Alignment
Neutral Evil
Species
Ethnicity
Other Ethnicities/Cultures
Age
32
Date of Birth
1621AAE 5, 28
Circumstances of Birth
Bastard
Birthplace
Eastpass Manor
Family
Children
Current Residence
Eastpass Manor
Sex
Male
Gender
Man
Eyes
Fiery Orange
Hair
Short Black
Skin Tone/Pigmentation
Indigo Blue
Height
6'1
Weight
160 LB
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