Master Qabei (Qwa-bay)
Council Master Epolmin Qabei (a.k.a. Epo)
We met in the most unexpected of ways. My father and I were traveling, when this boy, with eyes that burned like embers in the night, practically begged to follow us. He was like a lost puppy, insistent and earnest. We couldn't shake him off, and to be honest, we didn't want to. Then, one day, a troll attacked our caravan. Epolmin, "Epo", as I called him then, rallied some locals and fought it off.
After that, I couldn't just let him wander. We traveled together for the following years, and I couldn't quite see myself without him. I saw beyond the rough, very rough, exterior and found a heart full of determination and loyalty. After we married, which was an event in itself, he asked me if I had any ambitions, anywhere I wanted to go, anything I wanted to do. I told him as long as I could dance, I didn't care for much else. He talked about grand stages and the best musicians, a life I could dream of, but we both knew we had no money for such dreams. It was a few months before he asked who the richest person in Formir was. I explained that the council master's lifestyle was well enough funded, and the great families had their own income. I jokingly said he could probably beat up the council master long before he led a great house. Only then I'd have the largest stage in Formir.
A few days later, he disappeared, and a few more beyond that he sent for me, across the capital, by courier, for me to arrive at to our new home. The Council Master's Manor. When I arrived, there he was, nursing his wounds from fighting Necina Dyrsin. He had taken my joke seriously. I hadn't laughed as long or as hard as I did that day as he sat there, dumbfounded, not understanding the significance. He stands as Council Master because of my dream, but the extent of that truth is, while I mistakenly pushed him, he loves doing it. You, the people, are like his family, and he'd do anything to protect you all. He dreams of making Formir greater than it already is. I hope, when that day comes, I can stand with him and thank everyone for believing in him.
Physical Description
General Physical Condition
Qabei possesses a well formed but youthful frame, often underestimated due to his percieved age. However, his appearance belies incredible strength and agility, boasting the power of many men despite his boyish appearance.
Mental characteristics
Personal history
Born in the coldest reaches of the arctic glaciers, beyond the boundary of civilization, he was conceived on the winter solstice, with burning brown eyes in the starless night. A beacon against the backdrop of his own impending doom. The child may have been a burden to them, the reason for them to flee. A pair of people he would never meet. Yet, his father must have felt a demolishing guilt. He returned, secreting the boy into a cave, just a smidgen warmer than the chill outside. Against the stone, he carved a name with his blade. Epolmin Qabei.
Epolmin's earliest memory is being fed spoonfuls of mashed cave moss and chittering centipedes. In memory, it didn't seem particularly strange. After all, the man that raised him probably didn't know much better than not. "Eat it or starve," he'd say with a recurring cough and hacked lung. So, the boy did, feeling the exoskeleton grind against his molars and moss run bitterness down his gullet. Distaste couldn't describe it. Not even slightly.
He didn't eat nearly enough to gain typical weight. He was small for every age before fourteen, a lithe boy but well-trained nonetheless. He learned young to manifest his latent energies. Some people drew on magic; he drew on a force nameless but far from shapeless. This kept him alive when the world was determined to extinguish his flaming gaze. Wandering through the depths of the endless cave, Epolmin happened upon a labyrinth of forks and small passages. He spent much of his time during the coldest months charting. In this system determined to swallow him whole, he opened his maw and bit back.
Basilisks were a known threat, the telltale statues providing ample time to close one's eyes and run until you felt safe. Epolmin had no fair warning. A cave so ancient, it would be a surprise if he did. In the darkness of his closed lids, Qabei warded off a powerful creature with but his hands. He could feel the world shifting around him. Every sense was on edge until they weren't. Until he ended the threat to his life and continued with the mindless need to make sense of every nook and cranny. When he returned to the main cave, his master was gone, secreting themselves away into the wilds. A person he hasn't seen since.
Epolmin took years to venture from the caves, coming upon civilization for the first time. Immediately, he was face to face with a woman whose quiet demeanor gave no hint to her power. At least, powers Epolmin thought she had. Because at a glance, he felt a sudden need to follow her around. So he did. Everywhere she went, he did. Even at times of the day when she didn't know he was there. It was an unfortunate time when he sundered a troll's attack on her caravan.
This boy, wandering the wilds after a girl who didn't know his name, and he not hers, still thought purpose could be found in her. Eventually, he was correct. In time, half a decade, they'd marry. The trials and tribulations along the way tested his mettle but never his faith in her. That was something that came without question. One night, the two snuck into the council hall, and he watched as she sat on the throne. Their conversation turned toward ambition, and with the revelation that he didn't have one, she suggested her strive to rule Formir. A mistake she made.
In just two days, Qabei had beaten all the council masters into submission, if need be, and sat in the head chair. He became the council master, and while his first year was all study in preparation, he did earn his circlet, learning to rule.
Mental Trauma
Qabei, that lad, he’s seen more than his fair share of pain for someone his age. You see, his wife, she was killed by rebels. It was like a blade straight to his heart, but you’d never know it just by looking at him. Always so calm, so composed, even during council meetings. But we all knew there was a storm brewing behind those eyes.
The moment he learned of her death, it was like watching a mountain crumble. Quiet, so quiet you could hear a pin drop. Before long hwoever, it was as if a dam had burst. The grief and rage he unleashed were something none of us could have ever prepared for. He didn’t just mourn; he erupted, and the rebels felt every ounce of that fury.
Since then, I’d say he’s looked brighter, if you can believe it. After she was gone, and he dealt with the rebels, it was like he found some kind of twisted peace. But don’t be fooled. That brightness? It’s not all light. It’s the shine of a blade that’s been sharpened to perfection. He’s still the lad we all knew, but there’s a part of him now that’s colder, more dangerous. It’s a reminder that he’s not just a boy, but a ruler forged in the fires of his own grief and rage. And that’s something none of us should ever forget.
Intellectual Characteristics
Qabei’s intellect is a rich tapestry of philosophical thought and practical wisdom. His mind operates on a level that constantly seeks to understand the broader implications of every situation, always searching for the underlying truths that govern the world around him. This depth of thought is a fundamental part of his character, influencing not only his decisions but also his interactions and personal pursuits.
One of Qabei’s standout intellectual traits is his exceptional spatial awareness. This natural ability to perceive and understand the relationships between objects and spaces extends far beyond mere practicality. It manifests in his personal interests, such as designing intricate garden layouts and studying architectural blueprints. His gardens are renowned for their beauty and complexity, reflecting his deep appreciation for harmony and balance. Similarly, his fascination with architecture allows him to explore the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of various designs, a hobby that keeps his mind engaged and stimulated.
Qabei’s ability to perceive subtle differences is another hallmark of his intelligence. He has an uncanny knack for noticing the smallest details, whether it’s a slight change in someone’s demeanor or a nuanced shift in the environment. This perceptiveness makes him an astute observer of the world around him, enhancing his understanding of human nature and the intricacies of life. It also plays a significant role in his appreciation of art and literature, where he finds joy in uncovering the hidden layers and deeper meanings within creative works.
Morality & Philosophy
Morality
Qabei's sense of justice is fundamentally skewed and highly reactive. He believes in the inherent rights and freedoms that come with personhood, but he also holds that not everyone deserves to be considered a person. This belief system allows him to make hard decisions when it comes to threats against Formir and its people. To Qabei, anyone who casts a shadow over the well-being of his realm forfeits their claim to these rights. His approach is methodical and unwavering, eliminating those who pose dangers without hesitation. This stark view of morality makes him a formidable protector of his land, willing to take extreme measures to ensure its safety and prosperity.
Philosophy
### PhilosophyQabei's philosophy is grounded in a corrupted monastic way of life, a set of principles that he has adopted and adapted over time. Central to his worldview is the belief that understanding and growth come through a cycle of knowledge, pain, healing, and growth. He applies this to both the body and the mind, seeing them as interconnected and essential to true wisdom and strength. This philosophical approach influences his daily actions and decisions, driving him to continually test and push his limits while seeking to improve himself and those around him.
His perspective on the world is deeply rooted in the notion that pain is an illusion, and overcoming this illusion is key to personal and communal growth. Qabei views challenges and adversities as necessary steps towards enlightenment and strength. This belief shapes his interactions with others, as he often encourages them to face their struggles head-on, believing that enduring and overcoming pain leads to greater resilience and wisdom. His approach is both nurturing and demanding, reflecting his commitment to the principles that guide his life.
Qabei’s philosophy diverges from his morality in its broader application. While his sense of justice is specific to eliminating threats and maintaining order, his philosophy encompasses a more holistic view of personal and communal well-being. He sees life as a constant journey of growth and improvement, where every experience, no matter how painful, is an opportunity for learning and development. This outlook makes him both a compassionate and a formidable leader, as he is willing to endure and inflict hardship for the sake of growth and stability.
Compared to his peers, Qabei's philosophy is more introspective and disciplined. He places a high value on self-awareness and personal development, believing that true leadership comes from understanding and mastering oneself. His guiding principles emphasize the importance of inner strength and resilience, which he believes are essential for navigating the complexities of life and leadership. This philosophy not only shapes his approach to ruling Formir but also defines his interactions with those around him, fostering an environment where growth and self-improvement are paramount.
Personality Characteristics
Motivation
Qabei harbors a secret that drives his every action. Following the death of his wife, he transformed into a wolf among sheep, determined to protect this secret at all costs. While his official motivation is to safeguard the legacy of Formir and ensure its strength within the empire, his true driving force is the safety and security that his position affords. The power of ruling one of the strongest nations in the empire allows him to conceal his secret behind layers of authority and influence. Qabei's goal is to make Formir a sleeping giant, ensuring it remains impervious to threats and capable of withstanding any challenge. This underlying motivation shapes his every decision, fueling his determination to keep his secret safe and his nation strong.
Savvies & Ineptitudes
Qabei has an extraordinary talent for foraging and identifying edible plants and herbs in the wild. This skill, developed from years of surviving in the harsh arctic conditions, allows him to find sustenance where others might see only barren landscapes. His knowledge extends to medicinal plants, making him proficient in creating natural remedies for various ailments. This expertise is invaluable in both survival situations and everyday life, where he often provides herbal treatments to those in need.
Another of Qabei's notable skills is his proficiency in carving and sculpting. He can take raw materials like stone and wood and transform them into intricate works of art. This hobby not only provides a creative outlet but also serves as a meditative practice that helps him maintain focus and clarity. His sculptures are highly regarded, often depicting scenes of nature and mythology that reflect his deep connection to the world around him.
Despite his many talents, Qabei is notoriously poor at handling technology. Modern gadgets and machines often baffle him, and he tends to avoid them whenever possible. His aversion to technology has led to some amusing situations, such as when he tried to operate a simple mechanical device and ended up causing it to malfunction spectacularly. His advisors often step in to handle technological tasks, ensuring that Qabei can focus on areas where his skills truly shine.
Qabei also struggles with public performances, particularly when it comes to music and dance. While he appreciates the arts, his attempts to participate often result in awkward and clumsy displays. His lack of rhythm and musical talent is a well-known quirk, and he usually refrains from joining in on festivities that involve singing or dancing. This ineptitude is a source of light-hearted teasing from those close to him, who appreciate his efforts but recognize his limitations in this area.
Likes & Dislikes
Likes
Qabei has a deep appreciation for the natural world, particularly the flora and fauna of the arctic regions where he was born. He finds solace in the beauty of the wilderness, often spending time in gardens or wild areas to reconnect with nature. His favorite pastime is observing the behavior of animals, which he finds both relaxing and enlightening. He also enjoys the quiet, solitary activity of carving sculptures, finding the process meditative and rewarding.
Another of Qabei's likes is the taste of simple, hearty foods. Growing up on meager rations, he developed a fondness for plain, unembellished dishes. He often prefers a bowl of well-prepared stew or freshly baked bread over elaborate feasts. This preference for simplicity extends to his overall lifestyle, where he values function and practicality over luxury and opulence.
Dislikes
Qabei has a strong aversion to crowded and noisy environments. Having spent much of his early life in solitude, he finds the hustle and bustle of busy markets or large gatherings overwhelming. This discomfort makes him prefer smaller, more intimate settings where he can interact with people on a deeper level without the distractions of a large crowd.
He also has a notable dislike for unnecessary opulence and waste. Qabei is often frustrated by the excesses of the nobility, where resources are squandered on frivolous luxuries while others struggle to meet their basic needs. This disdain for wastefulness is reflected in his own minimalist lifestyle and his efforts to promote efficiency and resourcefulness within his realm.
Virtues & Personality perks
One of Qabei's most admirable virtues is his unwavering dedication to those he cares about. His loyalty is steadfast, and he goes to great lengths to protect and support his friends and allies. This loyalty inspires trust and respect, making him a reliable and dependable leader. He is also incredibly resilient, both physically and mentally, able to endure hardships and setbacks without losing his resolve.
Another positive aspect of Qabei's personality is his deep sense of empathy. Despite his stern exterior, he is attuned to the emotions and needs of others, often offering support and guidance to those in distress. This empathy makes him a compassionate leader, willing to listen and understand the perspectives of his people, even when making difficult decisions.
Vices & Personality flaws
Qabei's intense focus and dedication can sometimes border on obsession, causing him to become overly fixated on certain goals or problems. This single-mindedness can lead to neglect of other important aspects of his life, as he pours all his energy into one pursuit. Additionally, his secretive nature and reluctance to share his inner thoughts can create barriers between him and those who wish to get close to him.
Another significant flaw is his tendency towards harsh judgment. While he is empathetic, Qabei can also be unforgiving towards those he perceives as threats or obstacles. This rigidity in his moral code can lead to conflicts and strained relationships, as he is often unwilling to compromise or see things from the perspective of others when he feels his principles are at stake.
Personality Quirks
Qabei has a unique habit of tracing patterns in the air with his fingers when deep in thought. This ritual, a remnant from his time navigating the labyrinthine caves of his youth, helps him organize his thoughts and focus on complex problems. Observers often find this quirk intriguing, as it provides a glimpse into his methodical and introspective nature.
Another of Qabei's quirks is his preference for sleeping in unconventional places. Having grown accustomed to the rough conditions of the arctic and caves, he often finds comfort in sleeping on the floor or in other seemingly uncomfortable locations. This habit sometimes confounds his attendants, who are used to more traditional sleeping arrangements, but it is a testament to his adaptability and resilience.
Social
Reign
Qabei's reign began abruptly and dramatically. One day, he challenged the old council master, Necina Dyrsin, to a brawl for the position. At the time, Necina was not only the head of the Dyrsin family but also recognized as an exceptional pugilist. The fight was flashy and intense, but Qabei outlasted her in a test of attrition, seizing the title and seat from her. Necina, defeated, withdrew as the head of her family and disappeared into the wilds, vowing to return for her title. She has yet to reappear.
Initially, it was clear Qabei had no idea how to lead, let alone govern a whole nation. However, Tonarian Ironheart, the oldest and surprisingly the most liberal member of the council, took it upon himself to teach the young council master. Qabei, a quick learner, absorbed as much knowledge as he could, and within months, he was making basic decisions without causing unnecessary consequences.
The first significant change Qabei implemented was increasing the control families had over their territories. Previously, families could act for the benefit of their regions, but they couldn't create specific codes or regulations without causing unrest with every decision made. By strengthening the families, Qabei contrary to concerns granted more freedoms to the people. This was demonstrated when Elandra Vactis made radical changes to her territory, leading to a significant boost in sustainability and a decrease in the loss of life.
When Terrian rose to become the emperor in 1636, Qabei had been ruling for two years. The shift in authority was met with fear from the people of the empire, unsure if Terrian could control the Formirians. However, Qabei pledged loyalty to Terrian without contest, a historical anomaly. Some protested, claiming Formir was better off at odds with the other nations, but Qabei assured the people there was no worth in being part of the empire only to be sent to war. This allowed Aric Oric to work towards better diplomatic relations with the southern kingdoms. Meanwhile, the Holy Synod's influence has been creeping north, raising concerns among some about imperial influence, though no significant issues have arisen yet. Regardless of the lack of conflict, enough people were in unrest to form a small rebellion, which Qabei was handling to avoid violence.
The death of Vera Qabei marked the end of Qabei's lenient reign. Her death was catalyst toward forming the Pallid Ravens, a force he had previously refused to establish. The Pallid Ravens have had a push-and-pull relationship with foreign nations, but Qabei believes their presence is necessary to combat rebels, criminals, and monsters. While many understand his need for an executive force, the Pallid Ravens have shown they could potentially threaten national stability, leading to discussions at multiple imperial council meetings. Most of which were raised after a mangled knight was deliver by the Pallid Ravens themself to the doorstep of Duke Greyfall.
Qabei's rule has been characterized by internal and external compassion, a shift from leniency to sternness, and efforts to push Formir out of its comfort zone. He is transforming Formir from an isolated nation in the arctic mountains and tundra into a more integrated and dynamic part of the empire. His leadership is an anomaly among council masters, and he shows no signs of stopping. Some resent him, some revere him, but all respect him.
Family Ties
Qabei came from nowhere, no family name to trace, no background to investigate—an enigma. The only connection we could make was through his wife, Vera Qabei, née Gilsworn. She was the daughter of a merchant, a traveling musician and dancer. Vera was the one piece of Qabei's life we could put on record, and she was scrutinized intensely. Nothing about her went uninterrogated until people began to use what they thought they knew about her to get to Qabei. That was a mistake.
Qabei showed everyone where his line was. Those who thought he was just a kind boy with disproportionate strength and a lack of common knowledge soon learned otherwise. Within his first few days, he had two council members kicked off and replaced. Another was found dead—no one could trace it back to Qabei, but the three of them had been looking into Vera. After that, no one dared bring her up around him. Not that they needed to. In a few short months, she was the only thing he talked about besides work. Letters during meetings, avoiding every arrangement he could realistically skip just to get home sooner, and even publicly complaining that the nation's issues were taking away from his time with his wife.
Initially, people saw him as a lovesick fool and his wife as no better than an accessory to a fraud. However, during the annual Reinfros Summit, everything changed. This summit, a competition of battles, arts, performance, and strategy, was introduced by Vera Gilsworn herself. The people expected a stuck-up rich girl, out of touch with the rough Formirian life. They couldn't have been more wrong. Vera organized the entire summit, participated actively, and embraced the festivities wholeheartedly. The people fell in love with her. She became the shining light of Formir, her enthusiasm and warmth a stark contrast to the cold north. She rose the Qabei reputation out of it's dirt covered trench.
Vera's popularity soared, and she poured herself into making each summit better than the last. But when she passed, Qabei scrubbed every remnant of her from everything. The summits ended, her portraits were removed from the council hall, her name was erased from the lists of prominent figures in the capital. Yet, her name never stopped falling from his lips. Like he was trying to erase every part of her that wasn't etched into his mind. Vera was all he had, and when she was gone, it was like he lost a part of himself too. The people understood. She was a rare light among us, and Qabei's reaction was a testament to the depth of his loss.
Remove these ads. Join the Worldbuilders Guild
Comments