Darkonian Kargatane Record
- Known Name: Rozalia Babich
- Race: Human
- Apparent Age: Late teens
- Birthday: 15 January, 741 BC.
- Height: 5'4"
- Alignment: Lawful Good
- Affiliations: Church of Ezra (Mordent Sect).
- Religion: Church of Ezra (Mordent Sect).
- Character Class: Cleric (Anchorite)
- Place of Origin: Leiksburg, Barovia.
- Player/Type: NPC
Appearance
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Toret Rozalia is a young woman of serene and composed beauty, bearing the dignified air of her sacred calling. Her face is framed by a white wimple that contrasts softly against her youthful, fair skin. A single, subtle scar runs vertically from her left eye to her cheekbone, hinting at past trials or hardships faced with quiet resilience. Her eyes, deep and expressive, carry a gentle yet determined gaze, reflecting both compassion and the strength of a life of hardship that has made her stronger than her tiny frame may otherwise suggest. Although her hair is hidden beneath her wimple, it is known that Rozalia has long, mid-brown hair that she keeps neatly held for functionality under the wimple and veil as part of her dedication to her role as a Toret.
She typically wears the traditional habit of the Church of Ezra, a deep forest-green robe with a white veil that drapes gracefully over her figure. Emblazoned on her chest is the kite shield logo of the Church of Ezra, a symbol of her faith and devotion, prominently displayed on a patch of lighter fabric. The simple yet elegant design of her attire emphasizes her commitment to her spiritual duties, free of unnecessary adornment.
Her overall appearance is one of quiet dignity and calm authority, befitting her position within the Church.
Background
Born to a family of humble midwives that believed in the Morninglord, and the youngest of four children, Rozalia grew up devout and traditional, and was married to Ivan Minov when she was 13. She became a mother when she was 14 but complications during childbirth left her unable to bear further children. This drove a rift between her and her husband, who became openly abusive and cheated on her with local whores, but as Barovian law forbids both divorce and remarriage of widows, Rozalia had to simply tolerate it and trust in the Morninglord's message of a brighter dawn.
When the Halloways and their companions came to Leiksburg and exposed the Amaranth corruption, Rozalia had not yet been influenced by the Amaranth's cult into unwittingly selling her soul like so many others. Although she discovered in the aftermath that her husband had been a cultist, her family were unwitting victims, duped by the cult's lies into selling their souls for the dark blessings, like so many others. When the Amaranth left, collecting her dues, Rozalia found herself both orphaned and widowed like many others, and taking care of her child alone.
Despite the faith of the Morninglord's message of hope, the respected elder was taken by the Amaranth too, which Rozalie took as either a sign of naivete, or hypocrisy, and the other remaining cleric had gone insane. There was no spiritual guidance left, and few adults, and Rozalia felt lost both spiritually and economically. But then an outsider, a Borcan Anchrorite of Ezra known as Warden Marcus showed a charity she'd not thought possible - he dedicated himself to converting the temple of the Morninglord into a temple to Ezra that was also to be an orphanage for the many scared and confused youngsters. At 18 years of age, Rozalia was one of the eldest orphans, and helped actively - both from a desire to help, and as a means to provide for herself and her son which at least her help would provide. She found herself both taking to his teachings strongly, as well as enjoying helping those less fortunate. When Marcus died, saving the life of an innocent girl, Rozalia was touched and took the anchorite vows herself, dedicating her life to continuing Marcus' good work, and now runs the orphanage and serves as the local Toret for the Mordent branch of the Church of Ezra.
When she took her vows, the church of Ezra did provide some tutelage - though Barovia lacked a Bastion of its own, with the closest Bastion and Sentire of the faith being in Teufeldorf. She managed to get enough support from Warden Grace Archer and another temporary Sentire-assigned Warden in order to get her Anchorite robes, and then was left almost to her own devices. It's not that they don't support her - it's just that logistically she's too small and from any large Bastions for her to be properly supported. They would come if she called, but that call would take a while to be received and answered, and likely not arrive in time, forcing Rozalia to have to ensure her temple is self sufficient. Rozalia doesn't mind... she believes firmly in Ezra's protection, that Ezra will help her find a way, and whilst they may not offer much help on the clerical side, the Halloway burgomasters and their patron, General Stanislav, have been supportive - economically, at least.
Now at 19 years old, and the only Toret in Leiksburg, she runs the small Leiksburg temple/orphanage of Ezra, making her technically the Bailey, although she never uses the title unless there is need. What she lacks in experience she makes up in zeal. Whilst many Barovians consider religion to be a fools' belief - especially after the Amaranth incident, which many survivors still do not understand properly but just seemed to be further evidence of the lack of gods. Rozalia sees it differently - after all, it was a few followers of Ezra that came and rid them of the Amaranth... It may have resulted in the deaths of those already condemned, but it saved children like her son from growing up in the cult's lie and being duped into becoming condemned themselves in the future. What further proof of Ezra's protection is needed? The fact that the town was an idyllic paradise under the Amaranth's rule, whilst it now has economic and other problems since being "saved" by Ezra, is not an easy thing for her to discuss...
Personality
Toret Rozalia is a complex and layered individual whose personality reflects the depth of her commitment to her faith and her responsibilities within the Church of Ezra.
At her core, Rozalia is compassionate and nurturing, driven by a profound sense of duty to care for those in her charge. This empathy extends especially towards the vulnerable, such as the orphans she tends to in her role as the head of an orphanage. She is the kind of person who carries the burdens of others quietly, offering comfort and solace without expecting anything in return.
However, beneath her gentle exterior lies a resolute and unyielding strength. Rozalia is no stranger to adversity, and the scar on her face is a testament to her ability to endure and overcome challenges. This inner fortitude manifests in her determined approach to her duties and her unwavering commitment to protecting those under her care, even in the face of danger or opposition. She possesses a quiet courage that inspires trust and confidence in those who know her.
Rozalia is also deeply introspective, often reflecting on the nature of faith, duty, and the moral complexities of her position. This introspection sometimes lends her a somber or distant demeanor, as she grapples with the heavy responsibilities she shoulders. Despite this, she remains approachable and kind, always willing to listen and offer guidance to those who seek her counsel.
Though she is young, Rozalia carries herself with the wisdom and maturity of someone much older, a trait that has earned her respect within the community. Her leadership style is one of gentle guidance rather than authoritarian command, and she values cooperation and consensus in decision-making.
In essence, Toret Rozalia is a blend of kindness, strength, and deep moral conviction, making her both a compassionate caretaker and a formidable protector of her faith and those she loves.
Other Notes
Rozalia is generally respected by most people in Leiksburg, even if they may not like clergy or follow a different faith to the most common in Barovia. They respect that she is polite, well-meaning, usually soft-spoken, and willing to listen and help.
Of particular note is that she allows Kasimira Odmienka to remain at the temple and shares her bedroom with her, implying both kindness and trust. Although Kasimira arrived at the temple initially at the invite of Burgomaster Halloway and Warden Marcus, and Kaimira acknowledged and reciprocated this out of duty, their relationship has quickly grown. Kasimira is a Caliban, reviled and mistreated by most commoners but Rozalia recognises the incredible kindness in Kasimira's heart - which she claims "is a light of kindness so bright that it leaves me in shadow" and has grown to care for Kasimira beyond her initial duty. She feels pity for the harsh life she has lived and misshapen body she is cursed with, and treats her with kindness and tries hard to prevent the orphans from being cruel to her - as children are often casually cruel to anyone different. She has also realised that Kasimira has prophetic visions, and takes heed of them seriously when they occur.
Combat Style
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Rozalia has been quite well trained by the Church of Ezra (and further by the occasional visits of Warden Grace Archer) and is actually stronger and tougher than her petite frame would imply, due to a life of hardship and constant physical toil. When you are the sole person naturally carrying and dealing with all the heavy lifting, cleaning, and daily chores, a certain natural strength and endurance comes with it.
Although she's not a powerhouse by any degree, this means that she is actually in quite good physical shape and may surprise others in combat who do next expect it, as she is strong enough to wear her heavy armour without encumbrance, and has a competent and reasonably strong sword arm - and skill with a longsword. She has yet to see any actual combat outside of training, but her training with other Anchorites and, on occasion, some members of the local constabulary, have indicated she is at least as capable as the average guardsman in swordsmanship. The main issue in combat, however, would be her lack of combat experience, which experienced opponents could use against her and force her to make mistakes and fall for feints and tactics that experienced combatants, and those trained for warfare or deceptive combat, would likely employ.
However, whilst she is trained to defend with sword when needed, she is also trained to use the power of her faith. Like all anchorites, she is able to cast a wide array of divine spells and is a good healer, and able to channel positive energy to either heal allies or harm Mist creatures. If she is anticipating combat, she can prepare a respectable array of combat spells to assist, although on a typical day most of her prepared spells would be functional and beneficial to her role as head of the Leiksburg temple orphanage, with only a few combat spells as a precaution.
Social Style
To gain Toret Rozalia’s favour or friendship, characters should approach her with genuine sincerity and a clear respect for her faith and the responsibilities she carries. Rozalia values honesty and integrity above all else; any attempts at deception or manipulation will likely result in her distrust. Showing kindness, especially towards the orphans under her care, will deeply resonate with her, as she has dedicated her life to protecting and nurturing the vulnerable. Simple gestures of empathy, such as helping with the orphans or supporting her efforts in the community, will earn her respect and gratitude.
Additionally, Rozalia appreciates those who honour the principles of the Church of Ezra, so demonstrating a sincere understanding or willingness to learn about her faith will strengthen any bond formed. On the other hand, selfishness, cruelty, or a blatant disregard for the well-being of others will quickly earn her disfavor. While she remains polite, she will not hesitate to distance herself from those who lack compassion or moral integrity, and may even ask them to leave her sanctuary if their presence is disruptive or harmful. Treat her with the same kindness and respect she extends to others, and Rozalia will likely become a trusted ally and friend.
Signature Equipment
Armour & Weapons
- Anchorite Banded Mail: Masterwork but old banded mail armour with a green habit that once belonged to Warden Marcus. Rozalia has had it adjusted to fit her frame, and has restored it the best she can.
- Anchorite Longsword: Masterwork longsword that once belonged to Warden Marcus. Very common model used by anchorites of Ezra.
- Light Crossbow: For when there is need for a ranged weapon to fight things out of reach or perhaps to warn others away.
Magic Items
- Archon's Torch: When lit, it burns as a regular torch, but only lasts for 5 minutes. When held by a lawful good creature, it functions as an archon’s aura spell, making hostile creatures within a 20-foot radius have to overcome their fear or suffer penalties.
Mundane Items
- Anchorite's vestments: The traditional green robes with white accents of anchorites of Ezra.
- Symbol of Ezra: a necklace with a small pendant displaying the kite shield logo of the Church of Ezra.
- The Book of Ezra: The holy text for the Church of Ezra.
Signature Quotes
- "Such is My role in the Grand Scheme. So must it be" an excerpt from -The Book of Ezra that Rozalia is often heard saying, especially when her life is threatened but she remains determined.
- "The Mists whisper secrets to those who listen, but not all who hear are prepared for the truth."
Gallery
Toret Rozalia in her traditional anchorite robes
Toret Rozalia wearing the signature armour she inherited from Warden Marcus