This charming gentleman from my work-in-progress graphic novel is on his way to Siegel Cooper Department store for a nice cup of afternoon tea in 1909 New York. You may notice his unexpected choice of accessory – a heavy ancient sword. He isn’t merely paranoid about the safety of New York’s streets (although between the rampant gang wars and river pirate raids, a sword may well come in handy).

In fact, this is only one of the many antique Persian swords he wields in his nightly circus performances and they’re usually on fire.

Every night, his father, the Great Persian Mage, stuns and delights the people of New York City by battling and conquering the Four Elements and restoring balance to the universe. Each of the mage’s four children embodies one of the elements. Roderick is fire, demonstrating remarkable feats of swordsmanship as he juggles and swallows a dizzying number of flaming swords while challenging his father to an infernal duel.

He seems to be having some trouble letting go of his stage image during the day.