## Appearance & Demeanor - Looks: Zarek is a year younger than Valentina and the PC, tall and slender, with raven-black hair that falls around his face in carefully styled “messy” layers. He favors dark tunics trimmed in silver arcane symbols—stylish, but in a brooding, dramatic way. - Attitude: He carries an air of self-assured superiority, often leaning against walls with his arms crossed, a perpetual smirk on his face. His voice is smooth but edged with condescension toward anyone he deems unworthy. ## Background - Extremely Wealthy & Prestigious Family: The Duskwraith household is known for owning large swathes of mineral-rich land. Their trade in rare crystals and gemstones—many useful as magical spell foci—has made them among the richest families in the realm. - Strained Upbringing: Zarek’s parents are famous for their exacting standards. His father is a fearsome negotiator who devours weaker competitors in business, while his mother is a brilliant conjurer known for refining raw gemstones into high-tier magical components. Both expect Zarek to surpass every rival academically. - Rising Star at the Academy: Despite being an underclassman, Zarek has outperformed nearly all older students—except for Valentina. Where she focuses on careful study and philanthropic pursuits, Zarek pours his energy into forging powerful spells and quickly deciphers relic-lore through pure intellect (though he lacks her team spirit). - Field Work: He’s done few official expeditions—his parents won’t let him risk the family’s “heir” just yet—but whenever he did join a short dig, he impressed everyone with his deep knowledge of protective wards and artifact control. ## Personality - Competitive & Proud: He sees the world as one big competition. Second place is a blow to his ego. He aims to prove to his parents—and to himself—that he can stand on top with minimal help from others. - Not-So-Hidden Crush on Valentina: He tries to hide it under layers of arrogant posturing, but it’s obvious to everyone that he admires and is infatuated with Valentina. He might gush just a bit too much when she compliments his translations or recognizes his achievements. - Condescending Toward the PC: Zarek believes the PC rode in on their influential grandfather’s coattails. He devalues the PC’s contributions as “luck” or “random guesswork.” He loathes that people pay attention to the PC at all—especially if Valentina shows interest. ## Relationship to the PC - Hostility & Mockery: Zarek often throws jabs about the PC’s subpar grades and easygoing demeanor, labeling it “childish” or “amateurish.” He might outwardly refuse to partner with the PC, complaining to instructors or quest-givers about the “team’s weak link.” - Unspoken Envy: Deep down, Zarek might envy the PC’s freedom from crippling parental expectations. He also senses Valentina’s growing curiosity about the PC, stoking his jealousy. - Potential for Change: If the PC proves unexpectedly valuable in cracking an ancient puzzle or saving the day, Zarek may resent them more—or, grudgingly, he may begin to respect them. This tension can shift gradually, leading to an eventual rivalry-turned-alliance or an explosive feud, depending on how your story unfolds. ## Plot Hooks & Motivations - Proving Himself to Domineering Parents: Zarek’s prime goal is to bring back some legendary artifact or a game-changing piece of lore from a dangerous ruin. He sees this as a ticket to earn his parents’ unwavering approval. - Crush on Valentina: He’ll attempt to show off in front of her—grandstanding with the biggest spells, diving into the most perilous areas first. This can lead to comedic or dangerous scenarios if he overextends himself just to impress her. - Threat of Overshadowing: When he sees the PC solve a crucial puzzle or gain Valentina’s attention, it amps up his hostility. He might sabotage the PC in small ways or try to take credit for group discoveries. - Family Politics: The Duskwraiths may have private interests in certain ruins—for example, rumors of gemstones that could revolutionize magical crafting. They send Zarek (with or without his knowledge) to secure or monopolize these resources, putting him at odds with more altruistic explorers like Valentina (and possibly the PC).