[TBN] Merfolk warrior-prince

A formidable young warrior and a noble leader of his people. Honorable to a fault, and quite idealistic.

He is a prince of few, and in any case his role as a monarch is largely ceremonial. His remit is to protect his people from the many threats lurking out deep within the ocean wilds or among the distant stars, and to uphold the ancient legacy of his kind by fighting on behalf of those unable to defend themselves. To this end he journeys, sometimes with companions or retainers, often alone, seeking knowledge and opposing injustice wherever he can.

He is also an emissary on behalf of his people, seeking out allies and persuading others to lend their support. He has a keen understanding of the political and social dynamics of the other First-Awoken, something that few expect from him. He knows this, and uses it to his advantage whenever possible. Like his less principled ilk he can be somewhat manipulative and conniving, but whenever possible he tries to show good faith towards those he must work with.

Too often he finds himself fighting an uphill battle, as threats multiply and new dangers rear their ugly heads. Even so, he remains in surprisingly good spirits. Rather than shying away from difficult challenges, he relishes figuring out how to overcome them, and when he succeeds he takes deep satisfaction in knowing they cannot threaten anyone else. He enjoys meeting new people, but his rather strongly-held convictions sometimes cause friction with those who would otherwise be allies. He usually knows when to withdraw as not to stoke unnecessary conflict, although he is never particularly happy about it. 

Even among his kind, he is an exceptional fighter and a fearsome opponent whether beneath the seas or on land, and those who confront him mistaking their foolishness for bravery do so at their own peril. He is a vicious foe, especially when cornered, and his strength allows him to prevail even when he would otherwise be at a disadvantage. When provoked beyond his endurance his rage bursts forth, and he fights with bestial instinct and fervor.

He travels with little—the simply wrought crown he wears signifies his position, while the ancient spear he wields is itself a replica of a replica of a legendary weapon dating back to the First War of Heaven. The sigils embedded into his skin allow him to work lishu. While most merfolk attain these tattoos through accomplishment, his were granted to him because of his royal birth, and he is constantly mindful to prove himself worthy of wearing them.