(My Fan Lore) Taric, the Gem-Knight

(Hey guys, I'm a big Taric fan and I can't wait for his upcoming rework! This is just a short "new" lore for Taric, now that the Summoner's Institute and such were removed. I know this may be a long and uninteresting read, but I would appreciate feedback!)

As a young boy in the quiet town of Kalamanda, Taric learned to appreciate the beauty of the natural world. He was a curious boy, who preferred observing animals and collecting stones to games and toys. His father was a noted healer, known for his supreme generosity and mastery in the almost forgotten art of geomancy, or the art of drawing power from gems and minerals. From his infancy to near adulthood, Taric was taught everything his father knew, learning the meaning behind every gemstone with zeal. However, tragedy struck when the large gem and mineral deposits of his home town were revealed to the world. Soon, his once tranquil home was invaded by ruthless warriors and prospectors looking for a fortune.

Taric and his father were determined to protect their town from the vicious treasure hunters. Imbued with the powers of gemstones, Taric and his father acted as guards to the caves that had been kept intact for centuries, warding off intruders and preventing anyone entrance. However, they could not continue this forever. More and more people came, and common thugs were soon replaced by soldiers and generals. Taric and his father were cast aside, and their ancestral caverns were defiled. Soon, the beautiful town Taric once knew was reduced to rubble. The forests were cut down, the lakes were polluted, and the caves were stripped barren of the natural beauty Taric had loved.

Taric and his father retired to their home. The once clear blue skies darkened for Taric and his father. Sadness turned to illness, and soon Taric's father was nearing his deathbed.

**"Do not despair, my son. Do not let your heart succumb to anger. The earth is good and rich- what is destroyed is destined to regrow. Be happy, Taric. Remember what I have taught you; not only of gems, but of compassion." **

Despite Taric's greatest efforts to heal his father, these were his last words. At first, Taric was blinded with the thought revenge. Taric acquired armor and a weapon, and adorned them with his strongest gemstones. Taric stomped his way to the mines, ready to destroy those who had wronged him. Inside the mines he was met with a dozen miners, all removing the precious stones from the cave. Taric was on the verge of attacking them, when one of the miners removed a large crystal that was supporting the cavern. The ceiling collapsed on them, nearly crushing the miners. They were stuck beneath the rubble, crying and begging Taric for help. Taric was going to leave them to die, but he remembered his father's last words. Tears filled Taric's eyes, and he couldn't believe how ruthless he had become himself. Using all of his strength, Taric was able the free the miners from the boulders.

Taric was hailed as a hero. He was taken to the miner's camp and presented with cash and medals, but he rejected them. He had a sleepless night that day, as he was still thinking about all that had occurred. Taric was now alone, with no one to talk or relate to. Once again remembering his father's words, he took a decision- he would become a wandering knight, to protect those in need and to witness the beauty of the world.

Despite Taric's somber past, he is described as a jolly guy. He hasn't forgotten his sense of humor and his keen sense for fashion and art. He's quick to make friends with everyone and to make peace with even the most aggressive of enemies. However, deep down he is still a tormented soul.

"Gems... Gems are the only thing I have left..."