Editing Running Sheet Elias "Eli" Blackthorn (section)

===Backstory===
====Early Life in Crested Butte====
*Grew up in a bohemian household, surrounded by artists, musicians, and spiritual seekers.
*Developed an early interest in magic and mysticism, inspired by the natural beauty and isolation of the Rocky Mountains.
*Attended Crested Butte Community School, where he excelled in academics and the arts.

====Academic Journey====
1. Undergraduate: Western Colorado University (Gunnison, CO)  
*Majored in Comparative Religion and Linguistics.  
*Wrote a thesis on the occult symbolism in Renaissance art.  
*Joined a local coven and began practicing ritual magic.

2. Master’s Degree: Naropa University (Boulder, CO)  
*Studied Transpersonal Psychology with a focus on mystical experiences.  
*Published a paper on the psychological effects of ritual magic.  
*Developed a reputation as a charismatic but controversial figure.

3. Failed Doctorate: University of Colorado Boulder  
*Began a PhD in Anthropology, focusing on the global history of esoteric traditions.  
*Struggled with substance abuse and ethical controversies (e.g., manipulating research subjects).  
*Dropped out before completing his dissertation, leaving academia disillusioned.

====Military Service====
*Joined the U.S. Army at 28, seeking structure and redemption.  
*Served as a survival instructor and intelligence officer, specializing in cryptography and psychological operations.  
*Deployed to the Middle East, where he studied local mystical traditions and honed his linguistic skills.  
*Left the military after 6 years, haunted by the ethical compromises he made during his service.

---

====Criminal Past====
*Regret: During his military service, Eli used his skills in cryptography and manipulation to orchestrate a black-market operation, smuggling ancient artifacts out of conflict zones.  
*Consequences: The operation led to the destruction of a sacred site and the deaths of several locals. Eli deeply regrets his actions and now dedicates himself to atoning for his past.

---

====Traits and Habits====
*Eidetic Memory: Remembers every ritual, spell, and musical composition he’s encountered.  Brilliant linguist.
*Odd Habits:  
**Collects rare occult manuscripts and tarot decks.  
**Practices ritual magic in a secluded cabin outside Crested Butte.  
**Writes experimental music inspired by mystical traditions.  
*Travel: Frequently travels to study esoteric traditions, from Sufi mysticism in Turkey to shamanism in Peru.  
*Hedonism: Struggles with a tendency toward excess, particularly in relationships and substance use.  

---