Jory's a peasant from out in the midlands of the Empire. Too far from the capital to pick up a lot of culture, and too far from the border to experience the growing international tensions, Jory was content to work on his mother's farm alongside his dad and eight younger siblings. Still, Jory was a patriotic lad, and when the recruiters called on him, he answered. Despite being a naturally talented warrior, Jory's a friendly and modest sort, and makes fast friends. He comes across as 'naive', a word people use because they don't want to call someone that talented with a spear 'stupid'. He doesn't have any particular quarrel with the Four Allied Nations, but he loves his country and wants to protect his friends and family.
Why were you recruited for the Academy?
"When them Imperial recruiters came to my village, I told 'em they should let my Pappy go to the Academy, 'cause he's a real strong warrior. When we practice fightin', he beats me nearly two times outta ten, and no one else in the village done that. Me and Pappy showed 'em a spar, and even though he almost beat me that time, they done took me instead. I don't know why, but if the Empress wants my help, I'm gonna help!"
What do you think of the Empire and its cause?
"Empire's always done right by us, that's what Momma always says. We're just farmin' folk, and the Empire keeps the roads safe and protects the villages. And the year Timmy was born, we had that big drought, and there wasn't nearly enough food to pay the taxes and feed ourselves, and that nice general in the capital said that we could feed ourselves and make it up when we could. That was real nice. I don't know much about these other countries or wars or anything like that, but I know the Empress knows what she's doin', and I'm stickin' by that."
What do you know about the Allied Nations beyond Imperial Propaganda?
"One time a foreign merchant passed through our village on his way to the capital. I think whoever gave him directions done swindled him, 'cause we ain't exactly between the two. He sold Momma a whetstone, which still comes in handy round the farm. Seemed like an okay guy, I guess."
What is your hometown or place like?
"Middle Pigstick's the best hometown a boy can ask for. We're not all high and mighty like Upper Pigstick, and we got a tavern, which is better than Lower Pigstick. We're mostly all farmers, except for Mr. Baker the blacksmith. The people all work hard, but they're all real friendly. I do miss it sometimes; it's weird to see a buncha people and not know their names. Still, gotta do my part for the Empire!"