Tokorey
Lady Tokorey Elara Seraphine Ghaelen, de Gheed (a.k.a. Kori, Koko)
Early Life
Tokorey was born into a noble family in Gheed, a frontier region that has long served as a buffer during the war between the kingdom of Noellia and the neighboring country of Krimeon. From a young age, she was raised in a strict household where duty and honor were of paramount importance. Her father, the Marquis of Gheed, is a man of discipline, tradition, and immense pride in his family. Tokorey’s mother, while more nurturing, largely echoed her husband’s expectations, leaving little room for Tokorey to stray from the path laid out for her.
Despite the strict atmosphere, Tokorey’s early years were not without joy. Her older brother, Anane, was her constant companion. Anane was kind, caring, and protective of his younger sister. He taught her to read, often spending hours with her going through books, from fairy tales to adventure stories. Their bond was deep and unbreakable, and Tokorey idolized him. Anane was not only her brother but also her confidant, someone who allowed her to be herself in a world that demanded perfection. They shared a love for stories and often escaped into the fictional worlds they read about together.
Anane’s Death
Anane was drafted into the army at a young age, as the war between Noellia and Krimeon demanded soldiers, especially from noble families like theirs. His departure marked a turning point in Tokorey’s life. Anane’s absence left a void in the household, but Tokorey held onto the hope that he would return victorious.
However, just one month before the peace treaty between Noellia and Krimeon was signed, Anane was killed in battle. The news shattered Tokorey. Her father, who had always been emotionally distant, became even more withdrawn, turning his grief inward and expecting Tokorey to remain strong. He never openly grieved for his son, instead emphasizing the importance of duty and moving forward. His last words to Tokorey before she left for the palace were, “Never forget you are my daughter,” which she interpreted as a warning: she must not fail him.
Tokorey’s mother retreated into her own sorrow, leaving Tokorey feeling completely alone. Anane’s death not only devastated her emotionally but also shifted her entire world. The activities she once found joy in, like reading, now felt too painful, as they reminded her of her brother. Books became a symbol of the life they shared, and after his death, she could no longer bear to open one. The weight of this loss, combined with the pressure from her father to live up to the family’s expectations, made Tokorey feel like she was drowning in grief she wasn’t allowed to fully express.
Sent to the Palace
In an effort to secure a stronger political connection, her father arranged for Tokorey to be sent to the royal palace to serve as Princess Aliyah’s lady-in-waiting. This decision wasn’t just about courtly duties—it was an expectation that Tokorey would navigate the politics of the royal court, gain favor with the princess, and ensure the family's continued relevance and influence. Tokorey, still grieving Anane’s death, felt emotionally unprepared for this new life but knew she had no choice but to obey.
At court, Tokorey was thrust into a world of manipulation, alliances, and expectations. She became a pawn in the political games being played by her father, the Marquis de Landy, and other powerful figures, all while trying to hide her emotional turmoil. She desperately wants to make her father proud, but she feels increasingly trapped between his expectations and her own overwhelming grief for Anane. She’s haunted by his memory, unable to move on because the loss of her brother is tied so deeply to her sense of identity and duty.
Struggles in the Present
At court, Tokorey is constantly reminded of Anane through the quiet moments she spends alone, reflecting on the past, and through her interactions with others who often misunderstand her reserved nature as aloofness. The memory of her brother haunts her chapters, as she feels she’s lost not just a sibling but a part of herself. She often flashes back to moments with Anane, particularly their times spent reading together, and these memories both comfort and pain her.
Personality Characteristics
Motivation
Desires:
To Make Her Father Proud: One of Tokorey’s strongest desires is to live up to her father’s expectations. After her brother Anane’s death, she feels an overwhelming pressure to fill the void left by his loss, believing it’s her duty to uphold the family’s honor. This drive can make her feel trapped, as she constantly fears disappointing him, and his cryptic words only deepen her anxiety. Her need for approval from her father often conflicts with her personal desires, forcing her to compromise her own happiness.
To Find Belonging: Tokorey craves a sense of belonging, whether it's within her family, the royal court, or society in general. She often feels out of place, especially after Anane's death, which left a gaping hole in her sense of identity. As she navigates court life, she longs for meaningful connections and acceptance, yet feels isolated by her grief and the manipulation surrounding her. Her relationship with the princess, though conflicted, offers her a glimpse of this belonging, but it's also fraught with expectations.
To Understand Her Brother’s Death: Tokorey is haunted by Anane’s death, not only because of the grief it caused but also because she struggles to make sense of why it had to happen. She feels that there was no real purpose to his death, and it has left her questioning the world around her. This desire to understand his loss and find closure often pulls her into deeper emotional reflection and impacts her interactions with others. The unanswered questions about the war and her brother’s sacrifice make her restless.
To Reclaim Some Control Over Her Life: Tokorey feels like much of her life is dictated by others—whether it's her father’s expectations, the Marquis’s manipulation, or the court’s rigid structure. She desires autonomy, but her youth and inexperience make it difficult for her to seize control of her destiny. Her journey involves learning how to assert herself and make choices that reflect her own values and desires rather than just fulfilling others' expectations.
To Escape Her Guilt: Tokorey feels guilty for surviving when her brother did not, and for not doing enough to live up to his memory. This guilt eats away at her, making it difficult for her to enjoy anything fully or take pride in her achievements. She seeks to escape this feeling, but it haunts her in subtle ways throughout her journey, driving some of her decisions.
Priorities:
Family Honor: Upholding her family’s honor is a priority that drives much of Tokorey’s behavior. She is acutely aware of her role as the remaining child of a once-prominent family and feels that her actions reflect on her father. This makes her cautious in her dealings, always trying to balance personal feelings with her duty to protect her family’s reputation.
Finding Personal Peace: While Tokorey may not explicitly recognize this at first, one of her underlying priorities is to find inner peace. The turmoil she feels from her brother’s death, her father’s expectations, and the court's demands weighs heavily on her. She seeks moments of quiet and reflection, and these small instances of peace are crucial for her emotional survival. Even though she feels distant from the things she used to love, like reading, she subconsciously yearns to reconnect with them to find solace.
Avoiding Disgrace: The fear of disgrace hangs over Tokorey’s head. She prioritizes maintaining her composure and acting with propriety, even when she is emotionally overwhelmed. This makes her hesitant to act on her own instincts or challenge the authority figures around her, as she dreads the consequences of any perceived failure. She would rather suppress her true feelings than risk embarrassment or bring shame to her family.
Protecting Her Vulnerability: Though she desires connection, Tokorey’s priority is often to protect herself emotionally. Her experiences have made her wary of trusting others, and she often hides her true thoughts and feelings, even from those who might want to help her. She is careful not to appear too vulnerable, particularly in a setting as dangerous as the court, where she knows her weaknesses could be exploited.
Understanding Court Politics: As Tokorey becomes more entangled in the court’s political machinations, she begins to prioritize understanding the players around her, especially the princess and the Marquis. Though she initially feels out of place, her growing awareness of the dangerous games being played makes her more determined to learn how to navigate this world. She starts to realize that in order to survive, she must become more observant and aware of the motivations of others.
Savvies & Ineptitudes
Savvies (Strengths):
Emotional Sensitivity & Empathy: Tokorey feels deeply, and while this makes her vulnerable, it also gives her a heightened sense of empathy. She is keenly aware of the emotions of those around her, which allows her to understand others’ pain or distress, even if she’s often lost in her own grief.
Intelligence & Curiosity: Though her grief has caused her to step back from her love of reading and learning, Tokorey is naturally intelligent and thoughtful. She absorbs information and reflects deeply on what she learns, even if she doesn’t always voice her thoughts.
Perseverance: Even through her intense emotional struggles, Tokorey pushes forward. She hasn’t given up, and even when manipulated or backed into a corner, she’ll eventually fight for herself and her principles.
Adaptability: Despite the trauma she's experienced and her difficulty adjusting to palace life, Tokorey can adapt to new situations. She’s learned to mask her true feelings and put on a front when necessary, especially in the politically charged environment of the palace.
Strong Family Loyalty: Tokorey has a deep sense of loyalty to her family, especially to her father and her late brother. This can make her both susceptible to manipulation (as with the Marquis), but it also gives her a core of resilience—her sense of duty and loyalty pushes her to try harder, even when she feels overwhelmed.
Ineptitudes (Weaknesses):
Emotional Turmoil: Her emotions are often overwhelming and can cloud her judgment. Tokorey struggles to keep herself composed, especially when her grief over Anane resurfaces or when she feels isolated and misunderstood.
Naivety & Inexperience: At 14, Tokorey is still young and lacks the political savvy and experience needed to navigate court life effectively. She often misinterprets intentions and struggles to understand the deeper manipulations and power plays happening around her.
Conflict Avoidance: Tokorey often avoids confrontation, preferring to keep her discomfort or anger to herself rather than expressing it openly. This can lead to pent-up frustration and makes her more vulnerable to being manipulated or taken advantage of.
Social Anxiety & Isolation: Tokorey finds it difficult to connect with the other girls at court, leaving her isolated and insecure in social settings. Her tendency to withdraw means she often feels out of place or excluded, reinforcing her feelings of inadequacy.
Overwhelming Loyalty to Her Father: While her loyalty is one of her strengths, it can also blind her to manipulation. Her deep desire to make her father proud leaves her susceptible to the Marquis Landy’ influence and pressures her to accept situations she’s uncomfortable with.
Likes & Dislikes
Likes:
Reading (Before Anane’s Death): Tokorey used to love reading fiction novels, especially stories of adventure and far-off lands. She would often read with Anane, sharing their favorite stories and bonding over them. Since his death, she hasn't been able to open a book, but the fondness for reading is still buried inside her, tied to the happier memories of her brother.
Springtime: Tokorey has a connection to spring, as it represents renewal and hope. She used to love walking through her mother’s garden, especially when the flowers bloomed. The first bloom of the season often made her think of new beginnings, though now it brings her mixed feelings of nostalgia and sadness.
Quiet Spaces: In the bustling palace, Tokorey longs for quiet and solitude. She finds peace in quiet corners or gardens where she can escape from the overwhelming expectations and the constant noise of court life.
The Color Green: Green reminds her of home, of her mother’s gardens, and the peacefulness of nature. It’s a color she associates with safety, calm, and nostalgia.
Rain: Tokorey loves the sound of rain against windows or the roof. It soothes her and makes her feel as though the world is taking a moment to pause. It’s one of the few things that still brings her some comfort during her time at the palace.
Music: Though she isn’t a musician herself, Tokorey enjoys listening to music, particularly gentle, calming melodies. Music helps her relax and feel connected to emotions she’s otherwise too afraid to express.
Animals: Tokorey feels a natural affinity with animals, particularly small, gentle creatures like birds and rabbits. They remind her of simpler times when she could be carefree. She sometimes envies their innocence and freedom from human struggles.
Comfortable Clothing: As a noble lady, Tokorey is often forced to wear uncomfortable, restrictive clothing, but she prefers simple, loose garments that allow her to move freely. They remind her of home and a time when she didn’t have to constantly think about appearances.
Dislikes:
Court Formalities: Tokorey feels out of place in the court, with its endless formalities and superficial interactions. She dislikes having to maintain a perfect façade and adhere to rigid social norms, especially when she’s grieving and feels emotionally raw.
The Marquis de Landy: While she’s unsure of the full extent of his intentions, Tokorey instinctively distrusts the Marquis. She dislikes his patronizing behavior, his manipulation, and his seeming control over her relationship with her father.
Being Patronized: Tokorey resents being treated like a child, especially by people like the Marquis, who constantly belittle her intelligence or assume she doesn’t understand the complexity of her situation.
Feeling Powerless: Tokorey struggles with feeling helpless or being forced into situations where she has no control. This is a deep source of frustration for her, particularly in the palace, where she’s constantly manipulated or pushed around by others.
Reminders of the War: Anything that reminds Tokorey of the war, especially mentions of Krimeon or discussions about soldiers, is deeply painful for her. It brings up memories of her brother, Anane, and intensifies her grief.
Sylva's Absence: Tokorey misses her former maid, Sylva, who was a comforting presence in her life. She dislikes her new maid, Eileen, for being distant and for the uneasy dynamic between them. Sylva's arrest feels like a betrayal, even though Tokorey knows deep down that Sylva likely didn't deserve such a fate.
Large Gatherings: Tokorey finds large social events overwhelming. The constant pressure to make small talk, smile, and be polite feels exhausting, especially when she’s emotionally drained.
Her Own Weakness: Tokorey is constantly battling her own emotions, particularly her grief, and sometimes resents herself for being unable to move forward. She dislikes feeling like she’s wallowing in sadness or being unable to meet the expectations set upon her by her father and the court.
Virtues & Personality perks
Virtues:
Loyalty: Tokorey is deeply loyal to those she loves, especially her family. Despite her complex feelings about her father and the pain of losing her brother, she is determined to uphold her family’s honor and make them proud. This loyalty drives many of her actions and decisions.
Empathy: Though she often struggles with expressing her emotions, Tokorey feels deeply for others. Her grief gives her a heightened sense of empathy, and she can understand the pain others carry, even if she doesn't always know how to express it. She has a quiet compassion for those who suffer in silence, like she does.
Inner Strength: Tokorey’s ability to endure her grief and the pressures of court life shows a hidden inner strength. Even when she feels overwhelmed or afraid, she keeps moving forward. Her resilience is a powerful part of her character, and it’s what will help her grow over time.
Integrity: Tokorey has a strong sense of right and wrong, and she strives to act according to her moral compass. Even when she is manipulated or feels pressured, she wants to do the right thing, particularly when it comes to her family’s honor and her personal values.
Modesty: Despite her noble upbringing, Tokorey doesn’t flaunt her status or use it to her advantage. She isn’t vain or self-centered, and this humility makes her more relatable. Her modesty also contrasts with the arrogance of some of the other characters in the court.
Perseverance: Even when Tokorey is struggling, she doesn't give up easily. Her perseverance allows her to keep going through difficult circumstances, whether it's learning the nuances of court politics or dealing with her personal grief. She shows grit, even when she feels lost.
Intelligence: Tokorey is perceptive and thoughtful. She may be young and inexperienced, but she has a sharp mind and is capable of understanding the complexities of her situation. Over time, this intelligence will help her navigate the manipulations of the court.
Perks:
Charm When Needed: Though she is reserved and often uncomfortable in social situations, Tokorey has the ability to be charming when necessary. She knows how to present herself well when the situation calls for it, and this social grace can be an asset in court life.
Observant: Tokorey has a keen eye for detail and notices things that others might overlook. This makes her insightful in moments where understanding subtle cues can be vital, especially in a place like the palace, where hidden intentions are everywhere.
Quick Learner: Though Tokorey is new to many aspects of court life, she picks up on things quickly. Once she understands the stakes, she can adapt and learn from her mistakes, making her more capable of surviving and thriving in her environment.
Emotional Sensitivity: Tokorey’s emotional awareness allows her to connect with others on a deeper level, even if she doesn’t always show it. This sensitivity helps her read the emotions of those around her, which can be an asset when navigating delicate social situations.
Graceful Bearing: Despite her inner turmoil, Tokorey carries herself with a natural grace and poise that reflects her noble upbringing. This gives her an advantage in social settings, where appearance and decorum are highly valued.
Courage in Vulnerability: Tokorey shows a rare form of courage by continuing to move forward even when she feels vulnerable or scared. She doesn’t shut down completely when things get tough, and her willingness to face her emotions and hardships is a quiet but powerful form of bravery.
Trustworthy: Despite being manipulated by figures like the Marquis, Tokorey is genuinely trustworthy and loyal. Those who get to know her realize that she is someone they can depend on, even if she doesn’t always believe in herself.
Vices & Personality flaws
Vices:
Self-Doubt: Tokorey struggles with an intense fear of failure and feels like she’s never good enough, especially in the shadow of her father’s expectations. This constant self-doubt makes her second-guess herself, leading her to feel even more isolated and lost.
Passive Aggressiveness: Unable to express her anger or frustration directly, especially toward authority figures like the Marquis or the princess, Tokorey often resorts to passive-aggressive behavior. She makes cutting remarks or exhibits coldness rather than confronting issues head-on.
Resentment: Tokorey harbors deep resentment toward the people around her, especially those she feels are manipulating or controlling her, like the Marquis or Eileen. She resents her father for sending her away and the princess for living a life of privilege while she suffers quietly. This resentment builds up inside her, though she often tries to suppress it.
Avoidance: When faced with emotional pain, Tokorey has a tendency to avoid her problems instead of addressing them. Her reluctance to confront her grief over Anane’s death is a prime example—she avoids activities like reading that remind her of him, rather than facing her emotions.
Jealousy: Though she rarely acknowledges it, Tokorey is jealous of those who seem to move through life without the same burden of grief and responsibility. She envies the carefree nature of the other maidens and resents their ability to laugh and enjoy life when she can’t.
People-Pleasing: Tokorey has a strong desire to meet the expectations of others, particularly her father. This makes her vulnerable to manipulation by figures like the Marquis. She tends to bend her own will to please those in positions of power, even when it goes against her instincts.
Pride: Despite her insecurity, Tokorey has a hidden sense of pride, particularly about her family and her status. She feels the weight of her lineage and refuses to let others see her weakness, often putting on a brave face even when she’s crumbling inside.
Flaws:
Naivety: Despite her intelligence, Tokorey is still young and somewhat naive when it comes to the political machinations around her. She doesn’t fully grasp the complexity of the court and can be easily manipulated by more experienced players like the Marquis.
Emotional Repression: Tokorey represses her emotions, particularly her grief over Anane, which only makes her internal suffering worse. This repression leads to emotional outbursts at inopportune moments, often when she can no longer hold in her feelings.
Fear of Confrontation: Tokorey dislikes conflict and will often avoid confronting people directly, even when they are wronging her. This leads to a build-up of frustration and leaves her feeling powerless, which deepens her internal conflict.
Inexperience: Tokorey’s lack of experience in the world outside of her family’s estate makes her ill-equipped to handle the intricacies of court life. She doesn’t know how to navigate the social politics and often makes missteps that others could exploit.
Overthinking: Tokorey tends to overanalyze situations, which leads her to be indecisive or hesitant in moments when she should act. She often gets lost in her own thoughts, imagining worst-case scenarios or feeling overwhelmed by the weight of her choices.
Guilt: Tokorey feels an immense amount of guilt, particularly over Anane’s death, even though it wasn’t her fault. She constantly feels like she’s letting down her family or failing to live up to her father’s expectations, which can lead to self-destructive thoughts.
Isolation: Tokorey isolates herself emotionally, believing that no one else understands her grief or her struggles. She pushes people away, including those who might offer her support, because she’s afraid of burdening them with her pain.
Relationships
History
Though it was a political marriage, Tokori and her husband grew to love each other and enjoyed a faithful, fulfilling relationship until they died within days of each other in their 90s.
Species
Ethnicity
Life
331 EA
417 EA
86 years old
Birthplace
Family
Spouses
Cyrus Norell
(spouse)
Siblings
Children
Eyes
Dark Brown, almond shaped
Hair
Long, wavy, black
Skin Tone/Pigmentation
warm, golden-brown with scattered freckles over her cheeks
Height
1.57 m
Weight
83 kg
Aligned Organization
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