Xander Angelos's Questionnaire

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is where I call home for me! I live in a one story house on the outskirts of the city more towards Darby. It's nothing fancy, just a place with enough room for me and my gear, though I wish I had more storage space. The house fits well with my straightforward lifestyle, no crazy set up in it, just foyer, living room with an open concept kitchen, two bedrooms, and a basement. I chose to stay here because Philadelphia has one of the largest HEMA/HMB community, and the events and tournaments keep me not out of a job, considering I am the one training them most of the time. Though, if the opportunity ever arose to relocate, I’d consider moving to either Chicago or Seattle. Both cities are hubs for HEMA events, and being closer to those would make traveling for battles and training a bit more convenient. But for now, Philly is where I’m needed for my students and where I feel most at home.

I primarily obtain my wealth from training various people, large or small, weak or strong, and anything in between, in HEMA/HMB combat. I tend to focus on less of the melee portions of it and teach people how to do CQC with their hands whenever they are disarmed, or simply teach them how to use a bow, throw rocks, slings, javelins especially, or simply how to train their endurance with all of the gear on. Usually I will spend my money on bills, food, not too many luxuries past training gear and repairs, considering that a lot of the work does include boxing and kendo practices.

My ambition is to become a lightning paragon, a person of justice with the power to protect the people on this planet from those who would harm it, even if it is the people who are here. I envision a world where the planet is safeguarded, and all people can live in peace and happiness. I’m driven to see a future where my efforts can bring about lasting change, even if it means facing the trials and tribulations ahead. I would never kill anyone for this ambition. I believe in justice without bloodshed and would only fight in self-defense if absolutely necessary, and even then, we can always find another way. While I wouldn't want to die, who would, I’m prepared to come close if it means standing up for what’s right. My commitment is to the well-being of others, and my goal is to make a difference without losing sight of the value of every life. I have to be a good teacher for my students, and show them what is right, and what is wrong.

The most defining event of my life? I think it was buying a pair of old wraps from a pawn shop. I was just starting out as a trainer, and these wraps were practically a steal. When I put them on and began to stretch, something incredible happened: they grabbed the static in the air and it took a shape of a lightning bolt. Seeing that bolt flash and dissipate was a very enlightening point in my life. It wasn’t just the display of power these wraps had, but it was the realization that I was touching something beyond the ordinary. This experience ignited my ambition to become a lightning paragon, helping me figure out my path in life, and what I want to do to change the world for the better.

I think the person I’m closest to is my dad, Michael. After my mom passed away, Dad stepped up in ways I could never fully appreciate until I was older. He worked tirelessly to support us and never gave up on my dreams, even when things were tough. His solid belief and foundation he formed for me, and instilled in me and his resilience have been my guiding light. He’s a quiet man with a heart of gold, always there with practical advice and a steady presence. His sacrifices shaped who I am and continue to inspire me every day. Lena Rodriguez is another one of my closer people. She's one of my dedicated students, fierce and talented as a fighter. She joined my classes a few years ago, and her growth has been amazing to say the least. Beyond her skill in the battles, Lena’s drive and commitment reflect a passion for HEMA. She’s become a close friend and a source of motivation, always pushing me to be better. Ethan Miller is another of my students. Ethan is a younger guy who’s still finding his footing. He’s enthusiastic and eager to learn, though he sometimes struggles with self doubt. I see a lot of potential in him and make it a point to encourage him. His progress and determination remind me of my own early days, and I’m invested in helping him build his confidence and skills.

My childhood was generally good with no real issues up until my 12th birthday when my mom, Sasha, was diagnosed with stage four skin cancer. Not even three months later, she passed away losing to it. Before then, her life was full of warmth and comfort from me and my dad. Mom was the heart of our home, always brightening our days with her boundless energy and encouragement. She had a knack for making every moment special, whether it was through bedtime stories or homemade treats. Her hope and nurturing spirit helped make who I am, emotionally. Dad, Michael, was deeply supportive of Mom during her illness. He was a quiet strength beside her, managing the logistics of her care while keeping our lives as normal as possible. His efforts to shield me from the worst of it showed his dedication to both Mom and me. After her passing, Dad became our rock, juggling work and parenting with a grace that helped us navigate our grief. I attended public school and engaged in sports like football, track & field, and wrestling. These activities helped me fit in and provided a healthy outlet for my emotions. While the loss of Mom was a heavy burden, school and sports offered a sense of normalcy and connection, easing the transition during a challenging time.

I’ve had a few small flings here and there, but nothing that truly felt like love. Most of those relationships were fleeting and didn’t go beyond the initial excitement, they generally just left some reminiscences and fleeting memories. I’ve always been focused on my training and my ambitions for life, which didn’t leave much room for a serious, long-term connection. My drive to become the thing I want most in life and my commitment to HEMA often took precedence, as well as the well being of my students. While I’ve experienced affection and companionship, I haven’t yet found that life changing, awe striking love. For now, my passion for my goals and my dedication to my students fill my life, leaving little space for a deep romantic relationship.

My worst fears? It’s not pain or death; I’ve come to terms with those long ago, well not death, but still! No, my fears revolve around others, the people who rely on me, especially my students. You see, when someone steps into my training space, they’re not just there to learn swordplay, or the technical aspects of HEMA, or simply there to "get fit". They’re trusting me to guide them, not just in battle but in life, even if they don't know it. If something were to happen to one of them under my watch, if they were to be hurt because I didn’t teach them well enough, or worse, if they lost their life because of my failure... I don’t know how I could live with that. It’s not just about the physical side of things, either. People come to me sometimes when they’re lost, looking for more than just a fight but for purpose, discipline, maybe even redemption. If I fail to help them find that, if my guidance leads them astray or isn’t enough to keep them going, I fear it could cost them more than they can afford. That weight sits heavy on me because I know, at the end of the day, it’s not just about swinging a sword. It’s about making sure they walk away stronger, in every way.

My most prized possessions? It has to be my HEMA gear, especially my wraps. Every piece of my equipment has been with me for years, and each one tells a story. My short bow, battered but reliable, feels like an extension of myself, while my fencing jacket and mask have seen me through countless bouts, offering more than just protection. They represent the dedication and discipline I’ve honed over time. But the wraps? They’re something else entirely. I picked them up from a pawn shop, and I quickly realized they were no ordinary wraps, oddly enough. These wraps have a power, something... ancient; something electric. When I wear them, I can feel a charge coursing through my arms, and when I focus, they allow me to throw lightning javelins. Imagine that, lightning, harnessed and controlled by my movements. They’re not just tools; they’re like a gift from another life, something that connects me to forces beyond the physical idea of combat. Every time I use them, I’m reminded that there’s more to this life, more to the battles we fight, than just steel and skill. They’re my edge, my secret weapon, and the connection to something greater than myself.