Emily
A careful, loving mother whose greatest skill is knowing when not to be seen.
What People Know
Emily is known as a quiet, capable woman who keeps her household orderly and her opinions private. She presents herself as unremarkable by design—polite in public, reserved in conversation, and meticulous about routine. In a city that has learned to fear attention, Emily understands how to disappear in plain sight.
To neighbors, she is simply Zel’s mother.
To those who look closer, she is someone always listening.
Reputation
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Seen as dependable and discreet
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Trusted with confidences, never known to repeat them
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Considered cautious—sometimes overly so
Emily’s restraint is often mistaken for timidity. It is not.
Relationship with Zel
Emily’s life has been shaped by protecting Zel. She encourages learning, but fears visibility. She supports ambition, but prepares for flight. Every success fills her with pride—and quiet dread.
She loves fiercely, but expresses it through preparation rather than reassurance.
Manner & Personality
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Soft-spoken and observant
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Measures rooms before entering them
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Chooses words carefully, even with family
Emily does not panic.
She plans.
Rumors
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Emily knows more about Valin College than she should
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She recognizes symbols others miss
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She has contingency plans for events no one else believes will happen