Varnish Mudtwig

Varnish dreams of the days he’s heard about in old stories—when his ancestors fought, tamed, and eventually domesticated the giant alligators and blade beaks that once ruled the swamps. Those mighty beasts, now bred into the manageable-sized creatures he helps raise today, remain the pride of his family’s legacy.

Growing up among countless siblings and cousins on his family’s alligator farm, Varnish learned early the rhythms of the swamp and the patience required to work with its temperamental creatures. When he came of age, his family gave him their blessing to attend an adventuring school—a rare opportunity but not one they expected to last. Many thought it good experience, especially for the younger ones born with a spark of magic, to study beyond the nature-based traditions practiced on the farm. After all, they always came back.

But when the invitation to take the entrance exam at MAGE Academy arrived, most knew Varnish would be the exception.

Alligator farming had been in his family for generations—long before the founding of Shauland itself. The farm’s prized beasts were a staple food among the lizardfolk of the Swamp and even featured in grand feasts during the Leap Day celebrations across the region. For Varnish, life had always been predictable—until the day when an invitation from M.A.G.E Academy came. A letter from one the best schools would be shocking enough but this letter was delivered personally by Headmaster Dorian Drake and Qiss Thorn.

Really wants to go on epic adventures.

Likes amphibians hates snakes. Won't even turn into one.

Typically has good advice for nature related questions

He is likely to do things because he thinks it will make a good story to tell not necessarily because it is the smartest thing to do, what is worse is he is aware of this flaw.