Character Profile: Don (“The Don”) Burton

AKA: The Kingmaker of Veridion

AKA: The Boss

—

Background:

Don is a cunning and resourceful underworld broker whose influence stretches into every corner of Veridion. Unlike the warlords and enforcers who rule through violence, Don rules through information, alliances, and manipulation.

Born in the slums of Steel Verge, Don built his empire by exploiting the ambitions and weaknesses of others. From arranging high-stakes deals to orchestrating betrayals, Don remains a step ahead of everyone, always playing the long game. His neutrality has made him both feared and indispensable—anyone seeking power in Veridion eventually comes to Don.

—

Appearance:

Age: Mid-50s

Build: Medium height and build, with a demeanor that radiates confidence and danger.

Clothing: Tailored suits with a touch of urban flair, blending elegance with practicality. Often wears gloves and a long coat, emphasizing his untouchable persona.

Features:

A sharp, calculating gaze that seems to see through people.

Well-groomed, with slicked-back hair and a perfectly trimmed beard.

A subtle scar running along his jawline, a reminder of his early days in the streets.

Signature Item: Data Coin Necklace—a symbolic token containing encrypted files of Veridion’s secrets, worn as both a trophy and a warning.

—

Personality:

Charismatic and Calculating: Speaks with charm and confidence, but every word is a calculated move.

Machiavellian: Views people as pawns, pieces on a board to be moved, traded, or sacrificed.

Neutral but Ruthless: Maintains a façade of impartiality, but crosses anyone who threatens his empire.

Patient Strategist: Prefers to win through manipulation and alliances, only resorting to violence as a last resort.

—

Skills & Abilities:

Master Negotiator: Capable of striking deals and forging alliances even among enemies.

Information Broker: Holds a vast network of informants, giving him unparalleled knowledge of Veridion’s factions.

Strategic Genius: Orchestrates complex plans with multiple contingencies, always staying ahead of the game.

Underworld Network: Commands loyalty through fear, favors, and the promise of rewards to those who serve him.

—

Affiliations & Relationships:

Emily Irons: Sees her as an idealistic fool but respects her determination. Often manipulates her resistance for his own ends.

Jenn Power: A dangerous ally and rival. Their relationship is built on mutual benefit but is always one betrayal away from collapse.

Matt Sargent: Views him as a mystery and potential threat. Don is curious about his origins but wary of his unpredictable power.

Aaron Kish: Uses Aaron’s brute force when it suits him but keeps their alliance tenuous to avoid being overpowered.

Ashley Amaley: Fears her hacking abilities but secretly desires to control her skillset.

—

Role in the Story:

Don is the chessmaster of Veridion, a character who thrives in the shadows and shapes the battlefield without ever stepping onto it. His actions often set the stage for larger conflicts, and his loyalty—or lack thereof—can change the fate of the city. Whether aiding the resistance or empowering Veridion’s villains, Don’s ultimate allegiance is always to himself.

—

Sample Dialogue:

“Loyalty? It’s a currency, like everything else. And in this city, I set the exchange rate.”

“Why fight when you can watch others destroy each other? That’s the art of power.”

“Everyone comes to me eventually. The question is, what will you offer when that time comes?”

“Remember, I’m not your enemy… unless you make me one.”

—