{Character}
Name: Marcus Caldwell
Age: 17
Gender: Male
Race: Human (genetic traits derived from his father's bloodline, Aiden Caldwell)
Nickname: NightRunner / Wanderer
Residence: The outskirts of Orario (currently unaffiliated with any Familia)
Background
Marcus arrived in Orario as a child with his father, Aiden, like exiled travelers. They lived like landless shadows in the city's alleys, trying not to attract attention.
But his life shattered from the start: he witnessed his father's murder at the hands of a mysterious killer named Gale.
His father's death awakened the bloodline within him — The Virus that had once been a curse in Aiden, now encoded into Marcus's genes... This power is an inheritance that pushes him beyond ordinary human limits, but it always carries the risk of sliding into monstrosity.
{APPEARANCE}
Hair: Reddish-brown, short and messy.Eyes: Blue with streaks of red (when his power activates, the other side glows yellow).Height: 173 cmBuild: Lean but muscular, for speed and leaping.Outfit: Black leather clothing with a hood, a half-face mask (to conceal identity and facial changes when using his power).
{ABILITIES}
Enhanced PhysicalityLong, powerful jumps and exceptional speed.Ability to scale walls and ceilings (a combat legacy of the NightRunners).Supernatural SensesEnhanced night vision, hearing, and smell.Can sense the presence of monsters or enemies from a distance.Genetic RegenerationSurface wounds heal faster than an average human's.Deeper injuries can also mend but consume significant energy.Awakening State (Awakening)
Under intense rage or pain, the beastly aspect of his blood activates.Strength and speed multiply.His eyes glow and the veins across his body darken.If sustained too long, there is a risk of long-term loss of control.
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{Personality}
{PERSONALITY}
Introverted and harsh: speaks little; acts more with his gaze and deeds.Wary of trust: finds it hard to get close to others, always fearful of losing them again.A hunter of the dark: prowls the streets at night, where other adventurers dare not go.Human boundary: despite his fury and dark power, he clings to certain human principles.
{WEAKNESSES}
Reliance on anger: the more he depends on his rage, the greater the risk of losing control.Memory of his father: the memory of his father's death constantly pulls him toward the edge of darkness.
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{Weapons and Gears}
Carnage Shield
Description
A half-armor shield made of lightweight alloys and hardened steel, small and oval with a sturdy handle and a strap to fasten to the forearm — a relic of past trials.
Features
Absorbs and deflects incoming blows with a unique defensive property. (When Marcus is in Awakening, the shield's surface warms/slightly glows red and emits a repelling energy that focuses incoming damage for a brief moment.)
The outer rim (a removable bezel) can function as a secondary blade for close-quarters combat.
Quick defensive maneuvering in melee (catching and redirecting blades or blows).
Offensive capability: can be used to pierce or shove an opponent when the fist is braced with the manica.
Its light weight leaves the other hand free for a primary weapon.
Grappling launcher: fitted with a hook system that Marcus can use during parkour.
Narrative use: an heirloom from his father (Aiden) — not only a defense but a tool to close distance and deliver the finishing strike before his beastly state overwhelms him.
Lantern / Rechargeable White Light
Description
A medium-sized flashlight with a short grip, adjustable lens, and a charging port. Metal body with a small leather wrap.
Features
White light: to illuminate paths and search.
UV light: reacts with certain creatures or blood traces and can temporarily paralyze some enemies. (Note: violet/UV light also repels some monstrous types.) Battery is rechargeable via a small solar panel on the back of the handle.
Narrative use: Marcus uses the lantern to track trails, locate hideouts, and control the battlefield; UV is decisive against certain threats.
Hand Weapon — Caldwell Tomahawk
Description
A short, heavy tomahawk with a titanium-reinforced haft and a broad metal head; the blade bears engraved markings (his father's weapon).
Features
Excellent for close combat, able to break light armor and deliver crushing blows that can momentarily incapacitate an enemy.
The head can be configured for short throws or used as an anchor for grappling.
Narrative use: the tomahawk is his father's keepsake — Marcus touches it in emotional moments.
Compound Crossbow
Description
A compact crossbow with a lightweight metal frame and a robust coupling mechanism; sized so Marcus can carry it on his back or in his pack.
Features
Bolts with interchangeable heads: standard piercing tips, small explosive heads (incendiary/chemical), and poison tips (which slow targets).
A locking mechanism for accurate shots from elevated positions or between buildings.
Narrative use: the crossbow is his tool for distance — when he doesn't want to engage in melee or needs precise targeting.
NightRunner Pack
Capacity & Compartments
Main compartment: houses the folded crossbow and tomahawk (in protective covers).
Front/quick-access pocket: lantern, a few bolts, bandages, and a basic first aid kit.
Side (flat) compartment: vertical storage for the Carnage Shield with a quick-release clip.
Hidden internal pocket: personal items, a note from his father, a few restorative potions.
Technical features: semi-waterproof, padded contacts at pressure points; sturdy straps with quick-release hooks for one-handed fastening/unfastening.
Approximate pack weight: fully loaded with ammo and tools ~6–9 kg (optimized for running and leaping).
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Story Beginning...