Appearance
Jasper Cottonwood is a slight and sprightly halfling with warm, sun-kissed skin and a mischievous glint in their hazel eyes. Their curly, chestnut-brown hair falls loosely to their shoulders, often tied back with a colorful ribbon, giving them a carefree yet stylish appearance. Jasper’s attire is practical yet flamboyant—flowing shirts with intricate embroidery, fitted trousers, and well-worn boots that have seen many miles of travel. Their lute is always by their side, decorated with carvings and talismans collected from various travels. Though small in stature, Jasper carries themselves with an air of confidence that belies their unassuming size.
Personality
Jasper is gregarious, witty, and endlessly curious. They are known for their infectious laugh and natural charm, which can win over even the most grizzled adventurers or hardened soldiers. Despite their love of merriment and storytelling, there’s a serious side to Jasper, especially when it comes to issues of justice and equality. They are fiercely passionate about fighting against oppression, particularly slavery, and will use their voice, talents, and connections to advocate for freedom. Jasper is deeply empathetic, quick to befriend others, and adept at navigating both social circles and tense political situations. While their personal life is marked by their fluid romantic relationships with men, they are unapologetic and proud, viewing their journey of self-discovery as intertwined with their greater purpose of living authentically and fighting for others' rights.
Backstory
Born into a tight-knit halfling community in the picturesque village of
Riverbend, Jasper was raised with the expectation that they would one day settle down and live a quiet, comfortable life. But from an early age, they were captivated by the stories of far-off lands and grand adventures told by travelers who passed through their village. As soon as they were able, Jasper set out into the world, determined to see it all for themselves. Their travels took them through bustling cities, rugged wilderness, and war-torn lands.
Along the way, Jasper discovered not only the vast beauty and cruelty of the world but also their own desires. Around campfires and beneath starlit skies, they found themselves drawn to men—kind souls who shared in their adventures and hardships. This realization was a profound moment of self-acceptance for Jasper, and they embraced it wholeheartedly, even as society’s expectations loomed overhead.
But it wasn’t just personal discovery that shaped Jasper’s journey. During their travels, they encountered the brutal realities of slavery in the neighboring country of Astoria. Unable to stand idly by, Jasper aligned themselves with the abolitionist movement, using their bardic talents to inspire others and rally support for the cause. Recognizing that they weren’t suited for combat, they instead chronicled the deeds of those fighting on the front lines, recording their stories in their journal and amplifying their voices through song.
Now a well-known figure in abolitionist circles, Jasper travels the countryside, collecting and sharing stories of heroism and resistance. Though they carry the weight of the world’s injustices on their shoulders, Jasper finds joy in music, friendship, and the knowledge that their words and actions can inspire change.
Quirks
- Always carries a small sketchbook in addition to their journal, where they doodle scenes from their travels, portraits of companions, and symbols of freedom and hope.
- Has a habit of humming softly to themselves when deep in thought, usually tunes from their childhood that remind them of home.
- Collects buttons and badges from various causes and organizations, pinning them to the strap of their lute case like trophies of their ongoing fight for justice.
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