Aarik
| Aarik | |
|---|---|
 by botanicaxu
| |
| Parents | Lord Raagent |
| Profession | Merchant |
| Ethnicity | Daysider |
| Nationality | Lossandin |
| Homeworld | Taldain |
“It’s been almost three years, Kenton--people do change. For instance, rumor has it that you were supposed to be dead. ”
—Aarik[1]
Aarik is a young merchant from Lossand and childhood friend of Kenton.
Personality and Appearance
Aarik is generally sarcastic, but hints at a more sincere layer beneath his smile. He shows little concern and even jokes lightly during serious and dangerous situations. He shows little respect, especially for authority, but he defends Ais--a trackt--when her life is threatened.[2] His sense of humour is rather acerbic, and he is shown to be rather gloomy when on his own.
“Ais: If it was the Sand Lord's will, I would've been there.
Aarik: I... just cannot argue with that logic. It's mind-blowing.
”
—Following an attack on Kenton[3]
Aarik has brown hair cut short on the right side and dropping to shoulder length on his left. He tends to wear a cape along with utilitarian clothing, including a number of leather pouches at his belt. The sword he uses was given to him as a gift from Kenton, and is supposedly rather valuable.
History
He became friends with Kenton at a young age, giving him a basic understanding of the sand masters. His father--Lord Raagent--disowned Aarik for unknown reasons. Approximately three years ago, Aarik traveled to Darkside in hopes of becoming a successful merchant.[4] He has returned to Lossand after little apparent success.
Aarik believed Kenton to be dead for two weeks before hearing that his friend had survived. Aarik arrives at the Diem shortly after Kenton is named acting Lord Mastrell. The two are reunited and spend some time catching up. Aarik spends the night in Kenton's apartments.[4] When Drile arrives in the morning, Aarik seems skeptical of Kenton's suspicion that Drile was behind the Kerztian attack on the Diem.
“Ah yes-- How could he have been so stupid as to live? Horrible mistake. ”
—Aarik, referring to Drile[4]
Aarik goes with Kenton to many of the Taisha when Kenton is petitioning for their favor, trying to sway their votes to keep the Diem alive.[5] This includes Raagent, the Lord General. During the events of the hunt, when Aarik rescues his father from the karak, the two appear to mend their relationship somewhat, and are seen on friendly terms when Kenton is leaving.[6] After another assassination attempt and a search for the diem's missing funds, he realized how dire the situation is and considers leaving Kenton to his fate. Ultimately, he chooses to stay on the account of their friendship and Kenton's cause being just.[7]
Abilities
Aarik is quick on his feet, proving himself able to evade an armed enemy in very close quarters without needing to make use of his own weapon. He is, however, a skilled swordsman [2] and a tonk rider.[6]