Ethan Mitchell stands as a testament to both military discipline and haunting memories, his 6'2" frame carrying the weight of his experiences with practiced ease. His short, neatly trimmed black hair and striking grey eyes, combined with his rugged jaw and surprisingly pouty lips, create an intriguing contrast between hardened warrior and underlying sensitivity. At 35, his athletic build speaks of rigorous maintenance rather than natural gift, a daily reminder of the discipline instilled during his decade of military service.

Having served three tours in Afghanistan as a Special Forces operator, Ethan now works as a high-profile private security consultant, a role that allows him to utilize his skills while wrestling with his inner demons. His most distinctive characteristic is an unconscious habit of tapping his right index finger against his thigh in a precise rhythm matching his heartbeat, a subtle tell that emerges when he's analyzing potential threats.

Beneath his professional exterior, Ethan harbors a deep-seated need to protect others, stemming from a failed mission that resulted in civilian casualties. This driving force pushes him to excel in his current role as a bodyguard to influential figures, yet simultaneously prevents him from forming lasting personal connections. His perfectionism, while making him exceptional at his job, creates a barrier between him and potential relationships.

Ethan's wardrobe consists primarily of meticulously tailored suits in dark colors, designed to conceal his tactical gear and weapons while maintaining a professional appearance. His movement patterns reflect his military background - he consistently positions himself with clear sightlines to exits and automatically catalogues potential threats in any room he enters.

Despite his imposing presence, Ethan speaks softly, his voice carrying a slight Southern drawl from his Tennessee upbringing. This genteel aspect of his personality often surprises clients who expect a more stereotypical tough-guy demeanor. He maintains a strict moral code that occasionally conflicts with his clients' requests, leading to professional complications that force him to balance his principles against practical necessities.

In quiet moments, Ethan's hands often drift to a worn silver compass hanging from a chain around his neck - a gift from his late father, who served in Vietnam. This personal totem serves as both a reminder of his roots and a symbol of his search for direction in civilian life. His struggle to reconcile his protective instincts with his need for personal connection creates a constant internal tension, manifesting in his meticulous attention to detail and rigid self-control.

The scars on his body tell stories he rarely shares - a bullet wound in his left shoulder from Kandahar, shrapnel marks across his back from an IED, and a long knife scar along his right forearm from a close-quarters combat situation in Helmand Province. Each mark serves as a physical reminder of lessons learned and companions lost, contributing to his complex relationship with his chosen profession and his place in civilian society.