clarinetti
Spectre
Theme Song: Ibiza Spliff
Name: Naquenes A. Rhea
Epiphet: TBD
Age: 28
Race: Human
Sex: Female
Height: 166cm
Weight: 63kg
Region of Origin: Pyth is a collection of islands (Of which fourteen are inhabited) in the southwestern region of the Great Deep which were all formed by the now extinct volcano Mt. Krisa. The climate is primarily subtropical, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, rainy winters; autumn often brings strong winds and tropical storms are a common occurrence. The ecology consists primarily of lush shrub-land which gives way to forest as one approaches the increasing mountainous regions further inland. While its economy was initially based solely on agriculture (With the production of wine remaining one of its most lucrative exports to this day), the nation has since expanded itself to become a hub of trade in the southern hemisphere, the bulk of this economic development occurring on the main island, Phocas. The tourism and technology sectors have also grown to become important contributors to the GDP as Phocas and the neighbouring islands of Helicon and Epicus have evolved into metropolises, but on the smaller rural islands farming remains the dominant source of income. The country functions as a republic, with elections being held every couple years to select representatives for each legislative district as well as the nine-member Presidential council whom collectively function as the head of state. While there are numerous political parties currently represented in government, the majority party for the past four years has been the centrist Reform Now Party (RNP), which came to power after the previous government was embroiled in a policy laundering scandal, an event which caused considerable social unrest amongst the populace. In the subsequent election RNP ran on a campaign calling for increased transparency in politics as well as cracking the whip on corruption and improving infrastructure in more rural regions. While their victory was initially celebrated by the people, dissent has grown since then as the government has begun running increasingly large deficits in their spending, with seemingly little to show for it.
Like most nations of the discovered world, the Pythian culture is one of vibrancy and vitality, with fine arts such as dance, music, and especially the theatre holding a place of reverence in the hearts' of the people. Many actors and drama aficionados have made Phocas a place of pilgrimage at some point in their lives, whether it be to visit the ruins of the Hacendas Amphitheatre or to take in one of the latest stage productions in town. This emphasis towards the theatre extends to the point where most towns, regardless of size, have some kind of amateur troupe who will act out plays based on traditional folklore during major festivals. That the cultural minister is allocated a weighty budget to ensure the preservation of this centuries old tradition certainly doesn't hurt the cause (Even though tensions have begun to stir in office as other ministers and representatives have complained regarding the disproportionate budgets between offices). However, the country has over time attempted to extend its international reputation as not only a centre for the performance arts, but also for design and innovation. A handful of start-ups have in recent years been popping up across the major cities, and efforts are being made by the government to further urbanize the smaller neighbouring islands in order to continue this trend, although this decision has proven somewhat polarizing due to the cultural and natural heritage associated with some of these areas.
With drama being such a key component of their cultural identity, the rest of the world has come to (jokingly) stereotype Pythians as being inherently histrionic and pretentious in their creative endeavors, a generalization which many disdain. While they can indeed be a bit too overzealous (And most do have a streak of arrogance, even though it might not immediately show itself), the qualities which are most traditionally lauded in Pythian culture are passion coupled with self-discipline, idealist goals guided by practical application. Society urges its members to pursue intellectual or personal interests, so long as one does not forget to tend to their bonds with others in the process. To neglect either of these components is seen as being immature or uncouth, and some feel that they're under a great deal of pressure to uphold these societal standards lest they be scolded. While both men and women are expected to shape themselves into this ideal individual, women tend to be more harshly criticized for failing to fit the mold. This focus towards balance between passion and grace, the public and private life is most strongly felt in the rural townships and sparsely populated regions, where one has to make all the more effort to fulfill these expectations. It is perhaps this self-awareness regarding the relationship between individual and community (As well as a deeper bond with the natural environment) which (according to rumour) has contributed to the unusual number of Kindled Spirits whom reside on these more isolated sections of the archipelago...
Position: Doctor
Appearance: Broad shoulders, long limbs and an hourglass figure are the definitive traits of the Pythian physique, all of which Rhea has been fortunate to inherit. A strong jawline, nubian nose, and dark, almond shaped eyes are her most prominent features. Her ebony hair is typically kept in cropped, tight curls which highlights her coffee-coloured skin, dotted by old acne scars and slightly wrinkled at the corners of her mouth. As is tradition in Meerbaneese culture, Rhea's attire leans towards bold colors such as crimson, cerulean and indigo, though in her homeland's tradition it tends not to be quite as flashy or ornamented as those from other regions of the Known world. She is most often found wearing a colorful blouse with billowing sleeves, a plain long skirt or pants, worn leather shoes, and nacre studded earrings. Her posture is naturally relaxed, her movements fluid and at ease, though they tend to become stiff and more pronounced when she's angry or stressed.
About: Rhea is by nature a warm person, showing a genuine concern for those around her, whether they be near strangers or close relatives. When she asks how someone is doing, it is not merely a pleasantry but rather out of sincere interest, and will within reason do what she can to help someone when they're in a pinch. On the other hand, when dealing with a more forceful or contentious individual, the Pythian usually remains neutral or attempts to find points of agreement instead of being spurred to anger. Should she be continually provoked, Rhea is sooner to bitterly yield than have the conversation devolve into pointless quarrelling, a trait which bothers her more than she cares to admit. And while she might fume over these grievances in private, she sometimes lacks the backbone to directly confront the issue, preferring to compromise or negotiate when possible or else simply adapts to the situation in quiet frustration. Rhea is even-tempered more often than not and isn't one to get overexcited nor easily flustered, but her patience does have its limits: push her buttons enough times and she will snap at you with a wicked vehemence.
Above all else Rhea prides herself on her intellect and analytical abilities. Detail-oriented and organized, she absorbs any and all information like a sponge, and once she's set herself an objective shall give it her undivided focus to see it completed as efficiently as possible. However, this occasionally leads to a kind of tunnel vision, which may inhibit her from considering alternative options. Additionally, the Pythian has come to develop a self-righteous streak regarding her mental acuity, quietly deriding those she deems to be rash or foolish, and her warm demeanor quickly sours when she's forced to deal with the supposed ineptitude of others. Rhea tends to take time in coming up with a well-rounded opinion, and is not one to make hasty decisions nor judge others on first impressions alone. That being said, once her opinion is set it's difficult to sway her otherwise, and while she is quick to forgive others for their mistakes the woman seldom forgets a slight, no matter how trivial.
Above all else, honesty and reliability are the traits which the Pythian values most in her relationships with others. In her mind, good intentions are appreciated, but words mean little when not backed by a person's actions, and while niceties and civility are ideal additions, she would take truthful answers over sugar-coated responses any day.
Powers & Abilities:
Timeline:
Name: Naquenes A. Rhea
Epiphet: TBD
Age: 28
Race: Human
Sex: Female
Height: 166cm
Weight: 63kg
Region of Origin: Pyth is a collection of islands (Of which fourteen are inhabited) in the southwestern region of the Great Deep which were all formed by the now extinct volcano Mt. Krisa. The climate is primarily subtropical, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, rainy winters; autumn often brings strong winds and tropical storms are a common occurrence. The ecology consists primarily of lush shrub-land which gives way to forest as one approaches the increasing mountainous regions further inland. While its economy was initially based solely on agriculture (With the production of wine remaining one of its most lucrative exports to this day), the nation has since expanded itself to become a hub of trade in the southern hemisphere, the bulk of this economic development occurring on the main island, Phocas. The tourism and technology sectors have also grown to become important contributors to the GDP as Phocas and the neighbouring islands of Helicon and Epicus have evolved into metropolises, but on the smaller rural islands farming remains the dominant source of income. The country functions as a republic, with elections being held every couple years to select representatives for each legislative district as well as the nine-member Presidential council whom collectively function as the head of state. While there are numerous political parties currently represented in government, the majority party for the past four years has been the centrist Reform Now Party (RNP), which came to power after the previous government was embroiled in a policy laundering scandal, an event which caused considerable social unrest amongst the populace. In the subsequent election RNP ran on a campaign calling for increased transparency in politics as well as cracking the whip on corruption and improving infrastructure in more rural regions. While their victory was initially celebrated by the people, dissent has grown since then as the government has begun running increasingly large deficits in their spending, with seemingly little to show for it.
Like most nations of the discovered world, the Pythian culture is one of vibrancy and vitality, with fine arts such as dance, music, and especially the theatre holding a place of reverence in the hearts' of the people. Many actors and drama aficionados have made Phocas a place of pilgrimage at some point in their lives, whether it be to visit the ruins of the Hacendas Amphitheatre or to take in one of the latest stage productions in town. This emphasis towards the theatre extends to the point where most towns, regardless of size, have some kind of amateur troupe who will act out plays based on traditional folklore during major festivals. That the cultural minister is allocated a weighty budget to ensure the preservation of this centuries old tradition certainly doesn't hurt the cause (Even though tensions have begun to stir in office as other ministers and representatives have complained regarding the disproportionate budgets between offices). However, the country has over time attempted to extend its international reputation as not only a centre for the performance arts, but also for design and innovation. A handful of start-ups have in recent years been popping up across the major cities, and efforts are being made by the government to further urbanize the smaller neighbouring islands in order to continue this trend, although this decision has proven somewhat polarizing due to the cultural and natural heritage associated with some of these areas.
With drama being such a key component of their cultural identity, the rest of the world has come to (jokingly) stereotype Pythians as being inherently histrionic and pretentious in their creative endeavors, a generalization which many disdain. While they can indeed be a bit too overzealous (And most do have a streak of arrogance, even though it might not immediately show itself), the qualities which are most traditionally lauded in Pythian culture are passion coupled with self-discipline, idealist goals guided by practical application. Society urges its members to pursue intellectual or personal interests, so long as one does not forget to tend to their bonds with others in the process. To neglect either of these components is seen as being immature or uncouth, and some feel that they're under a great deal of pressure to uphold these societal standards lest they be scolded. While both men and women are expected to shape themselves into this ideal individual, women tend to be more harshly criticized for failing to fit the mold. This focus towards balance between passion and grace, the public and private life is most strongly felt in the rural townships and sparsely populated regions, where one has to make all the more effort to fulfill these expectations. It is perhaps this self-awareness regarding the relationship between individual and community (As well as a deeper bond with the natural environment) which (according to rumour) has contributed to the unusual number of Kindled Spirits whom reside on these more isolated sections of the archipelago...
Position: Doctor
Appearance: Broad shoulders, long limbs and an hourglass figure are the definitive traits of the Pythian physique, all of which Rhea has been fortunate to inherit. A strong jawline, nubian nose, and dark, almond shaped eyes are her most prominent features. Her ebony hair is typically kept in cropped, tight curls which highlights her coffee-coloured skin, dotted by old acne scars and slightly wrinkled at the corners of her mouth. As is tradition in Meerbaneese culture, Rhea's attire leans towards bold colors such as crimson, cerulean and indigo, though in her homeland's tradition it tends not to be quite as flashy or ornamented as those from other regions of the Known world. She is most often found wearing a colorful blouse with billowing sleeves, a plain long skirt or pants, worn leather shoes, and nacre studded earrings. Her posture is naturally relaxed, her movements fluid and at ease, though they tend to become stiff and more pronounced when she's angry or stressed.
About: Rhea is by nature a warm person, showing a genuine concern for those around her, whether they be near strangers or close relatives. When she asks how someone is doing, it is not merely a pleasantry but rather out of sincere interest, and will within reason do what she can to help someone when they're in a pinch. On the other hand, when dealing with a more forceful or contentious individual, the Pythian usually remains neutral or attempts to find points of agreement instead of being spurred to anger. Should she be continually provoked, Rhea is sooner to bitterly yield than have the conversation devolve into pointless quarrelling, a trait which bothers her more than she cares to admit. And while she might fume over these grievances in private, she sometimes lacks the backbone to directly confront the issue, preferring to compromise or negotiate when possible or else simply adapts to the situation in quiet frustration. Rhea is even-tempered more often than not and isn't one to get overexcited nor easily flustered, but her patience does have its limits: push her buttons enough times and she will snap at you with a wicked vehemence.
Above all else Rhea prides herself on her intellect and analytical abilities. Detail-oriented and organized, she absorbs any and all information like a sponge, and once she's set herself an objective shall give it her undivided focus to see it completed as efficiently as possible. However, this occasionally leads to a kind of tunnel vision, which may inhibit her from considering alternative options. Additionally, the Pythian has come to develop a self-righteous streak regarding her mental acuity, quietly deriding those she deems to be rash or foolish, and her warm demeanor quickly sours when she's forced to deal with the supposed ineptitude of others. Rhea tends to take time in coming up with a well-rounded opinion, and is not one to make hasty decisions nor judge others on first impressions alone. That being said, once her opinion is set it's difficult to sway her otherwise, and while she is quick to forgive others for their mistakes the woman seldom forgets a slight, no matter how trivial.
Above all else, honesty and reliability are the traits which the Pythian values most in her relationships with others. In her mind, good intentions are appreciated, but words mean little when not backed by a person's actions, and while niceties and civility are ideal additions, she would take truthful answers over sugar-coated responses any day.
Powers & Abilities:
- M.D: Having spent the past decade studying medicine and the human anatomy, Rhea has extensive knowledge in the diagnosis and treatment for a myriad of ailments and afflictions. While not being specialized in any one area of research, working in one of the more secluded regions of Pyth has forced her to become a jack of all trades (From minor surgical procedures to midwifery) and has subsequently adapted to functioning in less than ideal conditions. However, her effectiveness in the field depends partially on the equipment at her disposal; while she carries a med-kit on her person, supplies such as gauze, antiseptics, and medicine must be restocked as needed to ensure the best possible care.
- Competent in Combat: Given her relatively normal and peaceful upbringing, Rhea has never needed to undergo any serious combat training. However, that's not to say she's useless in a fight. Though medicine is her occupation, years of learning about the human body also lends itself well when you're in a pinch, and she's not afraid to use it to her advantage. Don't expect her to start cracking skulls, but she knows just how to nick an artery or slice a tendon if she has a blade on her, at least enough to weaken or disable her opponent. Worst case scenario, the Pythian is quick on her feet and would be more than capable of dodging or else fleeing from the average aggressor. As it stands now she's of more use behind the lines treating others injuries', but with time and training could become a proficient fighter.
- Botanist: Originally this interest came about during her time working in Laikouras and the neighbouring islands, where homemade remedies based on folk medicine were regularly utilized. In order to determine the legitimacy of these traditions she began studying the local fauna for its medicinal properties. While the results of this research was only partially conclusive, the doctor did in the process develop a green thumb, and thereafter continued nurturing an array of plants in her personal garden. While said garden was abandoned upon leaving Laikouras, Rhea did bring along with her a handful of 'specimens' as part of her 'continued research' (In addition to those which had become fond to her). She continues detailing any discoveries she makes in her personal notes, and seeks to expand her collection whenever possible as part of her hobby.
- Card Shark: Gambling was introduced to the Pythian at a young age, first in watching the town seniors tossing the die as a way to pass the time. As she grew older others in her age group began playing these games of chance, and after years of watching both her peers and the old folks in town (Especially her maternal grandfather), she finally decided to give it a shot and learned she had an uncanny knack for gambling, especially with card games. While she didn't play as often during her time in the city, her skill remained largely unmatched, bleeding dry many a fool who faced off against her, to the point where she was banned from certain casino's for card counting. That's not to say there haven't been low points, as there have been times when she's earned a decent sum of money only to blow it all and have to pay it back and then some, particularly when under the influence of alcohol- as a result, she seldom plays for money anymore, and only does so when sober. Nevertheless, she remains as sharp as ever, and it's said that a mischievous glint flashes in her eyes at the mere mention of a card deck.
Timeline:
- 3115: Rhea is born in Laikoura, a mid-sized town whose name is derived from the island it was founded on. She is the second child of Thalia and Yannis, a housewife and merchant respectively, and the younger sister of Phoebe.
- 3121: Begins participating in the locally run children's plays with her elder sister. Meets Cleos, the son of farmers who work at one of the local vineyards, and the pair become friends.
- 3129: Participates in 'Quatorres', a traditional coming-of-age ceremony with the other youth of her year. Along with a small feast and dance, participants individually meet with the town chief to receive guidance and blessings for the future. During Rhea's time with the chief, he states amongst other things that she has a 'strong spiritual energy' and offers to take her under his wing, but the girl is disinterested and politely refuses, having little faith in old wives-tales and her heart already set on the sciences.
- 3131: The teenager completes secondary education, moves to Phocas to pursue studies at the Pythian Institute of Medicine.
- 3137: Whistleblower publishes article revealing the policy laundering schemes and corruption of the government. The public condemns this behavior and commits to a series of protests across the nation, with Rhea participating in rallies in metropolitan Phocas. A few of these turned into full on riots, and after reports of police brutality the government instates a nationwide curfew for a week, further losing favor with the people. Government would lose the subsequent 3139 election to the RNP.
- 3138: Graduates from PIM, moves back to Laikoura to work at the local clinic. Reconnects with Cleos, who has since started his own winery.
- 3140: Cleos and Rhea become increasingly intimate with other, eventually becoming a couple.
- 3142: Rhea tests positive for pregnancy: after much discussion, she and Cleos decide to go through with it. However, a miscarriage occurs at fifteen weeks, which devastates her boyfriend and leaves the pair in a difficult position: over time, the two grow apart and go their separate ways. Rhea comes to terms with the loss, but struggles with the social stigma which now hangs over her and her interactions with those around her. Her relation with Phoebe most notably deteriorates, as the woman often finds it difficult (If not outright painful) to see her sister, who has a family and two children of her own. Ultimately, Rhea leaves Laikoura, initially returning to Phocas before deciding she desires a more drastic change of scenery and seeks employment abroad for an undefined period of time.
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