Ludwig von Hartok is a bearded, somewhat portly man in his middle years.  These days his formerly luxuriant hair has turned to baldness and he might have a grey streak or two, but neither his blue eyes or his keen mind have lost any of their sharpness.

Born to a family in disgrace, Ludwig fled from Wolfenburg to Nuln with his mother - after his father was burned by the Witch Hunters for heresy and consorting with the Dark Powers.  His inheritance claimed by his Uncle, Ludwig and his mother were left penniless and shamed, without allies or friends.

Undaunted, Ludwig spent the last of their money on his education and set up shop as a burgher.  Twenty years later, and far from that humble shop (which he now owns), he is still treated with scorn by those of the nobility who know his story.  His family history would be enough for that, but to demean oneself by engaging in commerce?  Unthinkable!  Worse still to be successful at it!

Today Baron von Hartok is one of the wealthiest men in the south.  His interests range from Kislev to Tilea and beyond.  If it's legal and money can be made from it - von Hartok is involved in it.  He has a reputation as a businessman without peer and a pious man to boot.  A long time friend to the Witch Hunters, the Templars of Sigmar can always expect shelter and assistance at his door.  Just one more outrageous aspect to the man's character as far as the rest of the nobility are concerned.

Despite being landless von Hartok maintains a strong force of Household Troops - many of whom fought as an independent Free Company during the Storm of Chaos after the Generals of Wissenland refused to accept them into the larger army muster.  Like their master, von Kleist's Independent Pistoliers garnered quite a reputation for themselves, despite being snubbed.

With the death of his extended family in Wolfenburg, Ludwig is set to inherit his father's estates at last.  If only he can prove his claim.  Southern Nobles horrified at the thought of what such an already wealthy man could do as a member of the landed classes are keen to prevent this - as are those with designs on Ostland at large who seek to deny Count von Raukov another powerful supporter who could prove influential in rebuilding and keeping out political interlopers.