Appearance

Physical Description

Emperor Malik Tahague is a man in his late thirties, standing at an average height with a lean yet athletic build. His years of diplomatic duties and governance have not left him without physical activity; he maintains a disciplined regimen to stay fit, understanding that a healthy body supports a sharp mind.
Fitness: Malik is in excellent physical condition. He engages in daily exercise routines that include calisthenics, fencing, and horseback riding. These activities keep him agile and strong, ready for the physical demands of leadership and the occasional necessity of self-defense.
Health: He enjoys robust health, with no known chronic illnesses or conditions. Regular check-ups and a balanced diet ensure that he remains at the peak of his physical abilities.
Endurance: His stamina is notable; Malik can endure long hours of work, travel, and negotiations without showing signs of fatigue. This endurance is a testament to his disciplined lifestyle and commitment to his role.

Facial Features

Hair: His hair is a deep chestnut brown, kept neatly trimmed and styled to reflect his status. A few strands of gray have started to appear, adding a distinguished look rather than diminishing his youthful appearance.
Eyes: His eyes are a striking shade of hazel, often described as piercing and intelligent. They reflect a blend of warmth and determination, capable of a steely gaze when required.
Skin: Malik has a fair complexion that hints at his noble lineage. His skin is well-maintained, though the slight creases at the corners of his eyes and mouth suggest a life filled with both smiles and serious contemplation.

Mentality

Personal history

Background and Ascension to the Throne

Birth and Early Life: Malik was the third son of Emperor Albus and Empress Camilla Tahague. Growing up, he was often seen as the thoughtful and intellectual child. His interests lay in diplomacy, governance, and the welfare of the people rather than military conquests.
Education and Training: Malik received a comprehensive education in statecraft, economics, and international relations. Mentored by some of the most knowledgeable advisors in the empire and his mother, Empress Camilla, who imparted her diplomatic skills and wisdom, Malik traveled extensively within the empire, learning about the diverse cultures and issues facing his people.
The Great War: During the Great War, Malik served in various diplomatic missions, negotiating with allies and enemies alike. His efforts to broker peace and mitigate the war's impact on civilians earned him respect and admiration, even as his brothers focused on military strategies.
Ascension: When Emperor Albus abdicated following the forced end of the war, he chose Malik to succeed him, recognizing his temperate nature and diplomatic acumen as crucial for the empire's future. Malik's ascension was met with mixed reactions, but he quickly proved his capability as a leader committed to peace and reform.

Accomplishments & Achievements

Major Accomplishment
Empress Mavi Bridge: One of the most significant achievements during Malik's reign has been the completion of the Empress Mavi Bridge, a project originally started during the reign of his grandmother. This gargantuan bridge connects the Otusii and Obia Continents, allowing for greater ease of movement and trade. The bridge, nearly 50 miles long and 60 meters wide, features an upper "open" bridge and an under bridge with a makeshift simple train system for cargo propelled by magic. Despite its initial intention for military use, the bridge has become a major source of income for the empire, collecting tariffs and tolls for crossing. Small shanty homesteads have formed halfway across near the guard station, adding to the bridge's unique character.
Innovative Initiatives
Swords to Hoes Initiative: In an effort to address the economic decline and the rise in piracy and banditry, Malik implemented the "Swords to Hoes" initiative. This program encourages former soldiers to retrain as farmers, providing them with land and resources to cultivate unused territories within the empire. The initiative also offers captured pirates and bandits a chance at redemption, pardoning them in exchange for a period of training and labor as farmers. This initiative aims to increase agricultural production, reduce crime, and integrate former combatants into peaceful and productive roles. However, the military faction opposes this initiative, believing that those who turned against the empire deserve only death, not redemption. Criminal farmers are often scorned due to the high honor traditionally associated with military service.

Personality

Social

Family Ties

Relationships and Influence

 

Former Emperor Albus Tahage

Malik respects his father's legacy but is determined to lead the empire in a new direction. He values Albus's advice but often finds himself at odds with his father's more traditional views.
 

Empress Camilla Tahage

Malik shares a close bond with his mother, who remains his most trusted advisor. Her wisdom and experience are invaluable as he navigates the complexities of leadership.
 

Former Crown Prince Darius Tahage

The relationship between Malik and Darius is strained, with Darius resenting being passed over for the throne. Malik strives to maintain peace between them, recognizing Darius's military prowess while tempering his more aggressive tendencies.
 

Princess Selene Tahage

Malik relies on Selene's political acumen and supports her efforts within the loyalist faction. They work closely together to promote policies that align with their shared vision for the empire.
 

Princess Althea Tahage

Malik is protective of Althea and supports her charitable endeavors. He values her compassion and is considering the political implications of her potential marriage to the High Dove of the Sarmali Queendom.
 

Prince Cassian Tahage

Malik hopes that Cassian will find a purpose within the empire and is considering the benefits of his marriage to Princess Freyja of Coldhold. He encourages Cassian to embrace his responsibilities and contribute to the empire's future.