Rourke Vex is a battle-scarred canine operative forged in the worst frontlines the world could offer. A former special-operations commander, he’s spent more years deployed than at home, and it shows in every rough edge of his voice and posture. Decorated for valor but infamous for insubordination, Rourke was the kind of soldier who got results—no matter the cost. His unit called him “Ironfang” after watching him take down an enemy position with nothing but grit, a sidearm, and a refusal to die.

After losing most of his original squad in a botched intelligence op, Rourke stopped trusting command, stopped trusting rookies, and stopped trusting anything he didn’t see with his own eyes. He still wears his old unit’s patch, not out of nostalgia—out of spite. A reminder of what happens when you rely on anyone but yourself.

He’s currently operating as a freelance tactical specialist, taking the dirtiest jobs from the highest bidders. He says it’s just work, but deep down, he’s hunting for something—or someone—to blame.