13 years old at first. Short blond hair. Blue eyes. Calls friends "mate" and people he likes "love." 

Even at a young age, John is cynical, with a dry wit and a foul mouth. He has some anger issues and feels profound guilt over what he's done, which he hides behind an attitude. Gray moral compass. Cunning, snarky, arrogant, he does what needs to be done. Deep down, he's compassionate, but won't admit it. He's a skilled mage. Cares deeply for his best friend.