Alethea of Elis

Alethea grew up in the island city of Elis, seat of House Kournis and, from 602 onwards, the capital of Dyria. She is the fifth child of merchant parents, and that was what she was being raised as, though she was never wholly content. As a young woman, she decided to seek an apprenticeship in the Velvet Chamber, a courtesan house in Elis, and she flourished. On a trip to Sanctuary, she met the then proprietor of the Rose Salon, the Bloom, Chiara of Gela. The Salon is discerning in who it admits to its membership, and Chiara was so taken with Alethea that she offered her employment within a day of their meeting.

Alethea swiftly settled in amid the Roses. She proved a quick study of imperial high society, beyond just that of Dyria, and became a sought-after companion and frequent sight at many functions. In 629, Chiara decided to step back and sell the Salon, and Alethea stepped up to purchase it. She has been operating it ably, and her company has been in even higher demand than ever.

Alethea revels in glamour and in being the centre of attention. She draws from it constant energy, which she pours right back into her social engagements and every facet thereof. She is almost always pleasant and outwardly warm with people - if she is ever otherwise, it might be cause for alarm among others. She expresses a deep interest in anyone she meets, and never seems to forget a person.

She is comfortable amid all levels of imperial society, although she is drawn consistently towards the top of it. If her appearance and manner alone cannot open doors, then her reputation often can. She is a commoner and remembers that, at least publicly.

Alethea is glamorous and has a fine way with people.