Varthine Crystal

Varthine was tapped for the position of House Mother at just 22, far younger than most who are usually tapped to become one of the House of Crystal's two co-rulers in their 30s or 40s. They began their tenure two years ago, at the start of the year AE 719, following the retirement of House Mother Ji'na. To anyone reading the papers or listening to the news, theirs would seem to be a quiet, unspectacular rule, but this is precisely how they prefer things. Their political style has proven more like that of a small-town mayor than a leader of a large city-state. Low-key town halls in cozy cafés where they spend far more time listening than talking have been a staple of their tenure.
Despite initial doubts about young how they were, they have proven themselves an effective counterpart to House Mother Xilonen, who is known for his boisterous, outgoing personality, and his talent as a captivating diplomat. Varthine is the one who is more down-to-earth, focusing their energies on issues that don't inspire bold headlines, but are no less important, such as infrastructure and housing.

Physical Description

Identifying Characteristics

Varthine is easily identifiable by their golden skin. They typically dress quite modestly, making it difficult to ascertain if it is all of their skin or only certain areas, but it is clearly visible on their hands, wrists, and from the neck up. Such features are commonly associated with tieflings or aasimar related to either Nezna, god of knowledge and the arcane, or Rassya, god of the sun and summer.

Apparel & Accessories

Varthine is always seen wearing a golden mask, almost identical in color to their skin. Delicate, lace-like designs decorate the front, along with four short strands of beads hanging from either side of their face. It lacks any strap or other obvious method of securing itself in place. It's unclear if they ever remove it.

Mental characteristics

Personal history

Presumed to have been from the Rapuria State of the Principality of Mahid, Varthine arrived in the House of Crystal by train at just five years old. Their name and date of birth was written on their arm, and their train ticket pinned to their shirt. Lone children were– and still are– an unfortunate reality that the House of Crystal had long since been prepared for, so it didn't take long for a ticket-seller at the station to take notice. They were placed in a home before the end of the night, and have rarely left the city-state since.

Gender Identity

Genderfluid, primarily shifting between feminine-aligned and nonbinary genders

Reign

Varthine's tenure has only lasted two years, but they quickly achieved high approval ratings. They have cultivated a reputation for being approachable and receptive, actively tackling issues that people come to them with concerns about. They've worked on transportation improvements, repairing aging port infrastructure, and updating building codes.

Current Status

Worrying they aren't taken seriously enough because of their young age

Species

Divinity-touched – Aasimar / Tiefling

Honorary & Occupational Titles

House Mother of the House of Crystal

Age

34

Pronouns

they/them

Gender

Androgynous

Hair

Dark brown, chest-length, shaved on the sides

Skin Tone/Pigmentation

Metallic gold around the head and hands

Height

5'6" (168 cm)

Aligned Organization

House of Crystal