Character building: Nightingale Style pt1: Tyrannus Brand

I've seen other authors talk about how they create characters, so I guess I should offer an insight to the maelstrom.

My characters are either facets of myself, people I've met, are seeded by other characters I've seen in games and movies, or strangely original. For example, the four heroes I use in the series all all facets of me. Several characters, like Trevor and Selene, are based on people I knew. Alistair Sinclair was inspired slightly by Yamato Hotsuin from Devil Survivor 2 for the Nintendo DS. Lastly, some characters, like Levi and Tyrannus Brand, are completely original.

Elaborating on the original characters would be a little more difficult that one would think. Levi has a great history just like Vladimir does. So I'll give a little insight into Tyrannus Brand.

Brand never existed before Rising Seas. I'm talking about when Rising Seas was Fallen Angel/Fallen Angel-Child. He came somewhat late into writing Rising Seas and I had to push a couple things around to squeeze him into the story.
I felt like Sinclair needed an accomplice that was strong, but wouldn't steal the spotlight. He needed a man on the inside, someone close to the king, that could get him deep in the castle with no hindrance. Hence, Alistair has a deal with the top man of the royal guard. Easy access in and out of the castle from the man who knows the layout of the castle. A man on the inside who could do damage to the king if needed.

His design is what I would assume is typical of a "guard captain" in fantasy settings. A large, hulk of a man who is cold, cunning, and can train others easily. Brand is unusually patient too, not just with Sinclair, but with everyone. I feared adding too much detail to Brand character so he wouldn't steal the spotlight. Brand pretty much lacks tangible ability. He has a sword, and some magic, but relies on strength more.
Unfortunately, Brand and Sinclair's relations sour prior to the start of the sequel, Dead Phoenix. Brand is passed over as the new Head of the Vanguard by a young man named Veil who curled up to Sinclair's side like a bratty kitten.

That's a little more insight to Brand's origin and personality. I wish I had more to say about a minor character.
This is my last post before vacation, have fun everybody! See you Monday!