Zarko Zapspark
Stage Performer
Con Artist
The self-styled 'Magnificent' Zarko is a gnome hedge wizard, stage magician, and petty criminal. Expelled from the College of Elbion for conduct unbecoming, his need for alternative sources of arcane knowledge has propelled him back into a life of travel, performance, and occasional adventure. The young illusionist has been known to hire his services out as a magical freelancer, but so long as there is the potential for rewards along the way he might take a gamble and offer his help free of charge under the guise of altruism.
Appearance
Diminutive by human or elf standards Zarko is shorter than a dwarf at a little over three feet in height, only slightly taller than halflings who he is often mistaken for. The pointed ears and exotic features distinguish him from other little folk. His beard would be almost dwarven if it weren't so meticulously groomed.
He prefers tunics in the latest trends spun from high quality fabrics over utilitarian robes, in his everyday life he resembles an urban socialite far more than a maester. During performances however he dons an ebonsilk cowl and high hat to complement his ensemble.
He prefers tunics in the latest trends spun from high quality fabrics over utilitarian robes, in his everyday life he resembles an urban socialite far more than a maester. During performances however he dons an ebonsilk cowl and high hat to complement his ensemble.
Skills and Abilities
Zarko's reputation as a master magician is severely overstated, but he knows enough feats of prestidigitation and minor illusion to fool most backwater hamlets and remote city taverns into thinking otherwise. Having managed to glean only a few truly practical offensive spells from the Foard Maesters, as a battle mage his arsenal is limited. Incandescent sparks of destructive azure missiles, magic in nature, make up his primary repertoire. Although typically reserved for his stage act, he is also capable of producing a great gout of flame at close range.
In matters mundane, Zarko is both an avid gambler and an aficionado of all things fine culture. A gifted albeit troubled student, the gnome retains his sharp mind and hones those faculties on whatever tomes and ancient scrolls he might happen across in his travels.
In matters mundane, Zarko is both an avid gambler and an aficionado of all things fine culture. A gifted albeit troubled student, the gnome retains his sharp mind and hones those faculties on whatever tomes and ancient scrolls he might happen across in his travels.
Personality
Both optimistic and narcissistic to a fault, the gnome nevertheless oozes self assured charm. Zarko is not cruel, but a troubling lack of moral character resulted in his exile from the College at Elbion and current less than legitimate affairs. On the quest for great fortune he has few qualms about getting his hands dirty. He is no killer, but has eviscerated many a pocketbook.
As gnomes are considered outsiders by most Zarko lacks many racial prejudices, viewing all with an equal measure of healthy distrust and paranoia. Typical for his kind he is an accomplished tinkerer, incorporating simple hand fashioned gadgets and machinery into his act. He is not cowardly, but is also unlikely to risk his own life in the name of some higher cause.
As gnomes are considered outsiders by most Zarko lacks many racial prejudices, viewing all with an equal measure of healthy distrust and paranoia. Typical for his kind he is an accomplished tinkerer, incorporating simple hand fashioned gadgets and machinery into his act. He is not cowardly, but is also unlikely to risk his own life in the name of some higher cause.
