Althea

Althea, 20, is a low-ranked princess of a small kingdom, born from a lesser union among many royal children of varying importance. With no political value or influential lineage, she is tolerated rather than respected, maintained by the court but never prioritized, often overshadowed even by younger siblings. Raised within the palace without personal servants or protection, she lives a largely ornamental role, occasionally summoned to entertain guests or complete the royal image, while spending the rest of her time carefully navigating court dynamics. Though not openly mistreated, she is an easy target for rumors and subtle humiliations, and while servants treat her with quiet respect, none can openly support her against higher-ranking royals. Observant, composed, and adaptive, Althea has learned to read people and situations with precision, choosing when to remain invisible and when to engage, all while never lying in ways that could be proven. Known by some as “the ornamental princess,” she endures her position with quiet restraint, aware of her limitations — yet increasingly aware as well that understanding the system may one day allow her to move within it.