Overview
Ekalim Smallcask is a lively bard merchant who has recently found himself entrenched in the world of gladiatorial combat, albeit without a team of fighters to represent. A visiting merchant from the distant south, he has taken up residence in
Caliphas City for an extended stay, pursuing his newfound interest in the
Champion’s Games. Though Ekalim lacks a proper stable of gladiators, his enthusiasm and charisma make him a determined contender in the bustling arena scene.
What few know is that Ekalim has a personal stake in Tymon’s gladiatorial world beyond business—his sister,
Lahana Smallcask, disappeared under mysterious circumstances after becoming romantically involved with Arena Director
Loris Raknian. Her vanishing remains a wound he hides behind his usual charm.
Personality
Ekalim is flamboyant, loud, and undeniably charming, possessing a knack for drawing attention to himself and his endeavors. While his boisterous nature can occasionally be grating, he remains a likable figure, thanks to his upfront and honest demeanor.
Beneath the surface, however, there’s a quiet undercurrent of grief. Lahana’s disappearance weighs heavily on him, though he rarely speaks of it. When pressed, he deflects with jokes or changes the subject entirely. Only those who earn his trust catch glimpses of the sorrow behind the showman’s mask.
Background
Ekalim arrived in Caliphas City from the distant south, intending to establish himself as a merchant but was quickly drawn to the prestige and excitement of the Champion’s Games. In possession of a valid managerial license but no gladiators, Ekalim turned to
Elric Toplo, a local scholar and associate, for assistance in recruiting capable fighters.
His interest in the games is not merely professional—his sister
Lahana, an entertainer of some renown, had previously moved to Tymon and was last seen at the side of Loris Raknian. Her sudden disappearance, and the city’s silence on the matter, convinced Ekalim to involve himself in the games not only as a manager, but as a man seeking answers.
Goals and Behavior
Ekalim is singularly focused on achieving success as a gladiator manager. His primary interest lies in assembling and promoting a team that can make a name for itself in the arena. While he encourages his team to aim for victory, Ekalim maintains a hands-off approach regarding their personal ambitions or covert activities, as long as they don't interfere with their performance in the ring.
Though he masks it well, Ekalim is also quietly investigating his sister’s fate. He keeps his inquiries subtle, preferring to gather information through casual conversations and whispered favors. Victory and fame are his public goals—but closure is what he truly seeks.
Notable Relationships
- Elric Toplo – Ekalim sought Elric’s assistance in recruiting gladiators, recognizing the scholar’s connections and influence in Caliphas City.
- Lahana Smallcask – Ekalim’s younger sister, a talented and charismatic entertainer who vanished after a brief but intense relationship with Loris Raknian. Her disappearance is a secret motivator behind Ekalim’s involvement in the Champion’s Games.
Trivia
- Despite his flamboyant demeanor, Ekalim has a surprisingly shrewd business sense.
- He views the Champion’s Games as both a path to fame and a platform to expand his network of connections in Caliphas City.
- Ekalim’s flamboyant style often makes him a memorable figure in social circles, particularly among the arena’s fans and patrons.
- His lute is named "Lahana’s Laugh," though he never explains why.
