Profile
Next in line to claim the title of Royal Artificer is Chiyembekezo Kuwala. It's all she's looked forward to since a young age, proudly boasting about how she'll be the best artificer in her family's lineage. There's no competition with her dedication, and it's why she's delayed taking the title for so long.
Each prospective Royal Artificer is required to undertake a trial to test their loyalty. To do so, one must journey across the world of Noveo, both as a show of the Asran Empire's prowess and as an ultimate test of temptations.
The unfortunate part in all of this is a war brewing between Oshar and Ferind, it's neighboring country. It's something that Kezo knows of but, due to her position, is kept in the dark as she's not qualified to know.
This all comes to a head when her older brother forces her to take on the dreaded journey, limiting her escapade to Oshar and hoping that it'll be worth it in the end.
So, with a hammer and map in tow, Kezo sets out to brave the dunes and (hopefully) halt the conflict.
— / chee-yehm-bay-KAY-zo ・ koo-WAY-lah /
— Born April 2nd.
— Addressed with she/her only.
— "Beast" refers to the animal the character is combined with. Only the greater classification is known in-universe; the exact animal is specified for reader clarity. Please see here for more information.
— Artwork and moodboard images have individual credits linked.
First Face : The World
What's Kezo's general demeanor in the public eye?
Kezo is a cheerful person who's always ready to lend a hand. She has a strong sense of justice and believes that what goes around will come around. She strives to believe in the best of everyone, and she'll make it known. She's a shoulder to lean on, being the solid, sunny rock that'll support anyone, be it friend, foe, or unfamiliar. She wears her heart on her sleeve and isn't afraid to show it off!
The boundless optimism that Kezo has often comes across as naïveté and can even be insensitive. There's much she wants to learn and understand, so she makes no effort in hiding her curiosity and exposing that she knows very little beyond the walls of Asran.
As a noble, Kezo's upbringing shines most in how she holds herself and the tolerance she has for some of the more haughty types of people. She knows what words to say and the proper tone when it counts the most. It's easy to forget this detail as she prefers to be casual, but she never forgets her courtesy.
Second Face: Close ones
Among loved ones, what changes in Kezo's behavior?
Kezo allows herself to be even more casual and a bit daring when she's with loved ones. As the expectations to appear collected are gone, her care for remaining proper are fully abandoned. She'll often goof off when she's able to, cracking jokes and suggesting entertaining ways to go about something.
While not much of a surprise, Kezo is a lot more openly affectionate as well. She won't shy away from greeting a loved one with a hug or openly stating how much she cares. She can get extremely sappy and doesn't care if she's being cheesy about it.
Some of her sharper wit shines through in her dialogue and she's more willing to entertain in-depth discussions. This alludes to her true nature and what she keeps close to her chest, but it's just enough to keep everyone assuming her wit is from her profession. She isn't one to boast nor does she want to draw attention to her perception.
Third Face: True Reflection
What are Kezo's true thoughts? What is she like when she's completely alone?
What Kezo doesn't want others to know is her true perception. Having engaged with Asran's nobility and common folk leads her to understand how people act. She knows what to say to coax someone into what she'd like, but refuses to use this to her advantage. She'd rather get a read on someone and keep those notes in her head, compiling a compendium on everyone she interacts with. However, her insistence on being positive often has her brushing off the red flags she'll come across.
This observation and reasoning is often negatively reflected back on herself and the situations she finds herself in. It's a nagging voice in the back of her head, plaguing her with "what-if"s. She constantly refuses to add up everything, wanting to stay ignorant despite knowing, deep down, that things are wrong. All Kezo can do is hope that her race against the clock will save the day and put her mind at ease.
Six of Cups (reversed)
Queen of Swords
- Persistence despite obstacles / failure.
- Out-of-the-box thinking.
- Overly empathetic and trusting.
- Ignores realistic outlooks in favor of optimistic ideals.
- Disappointment / letting others down.
- Losing ignorance.
- Strives to be a peacemaker.
- Becoming a Royal Artificer.
- Spending quality time with loved ones.
- Learning and researching.
- Kezo is meant to be a subversion of the "loveable but stupid protagonist" trope. Her exterior comes across as rather dim but, in reality, she's very witty.
- She's a difficult character to write as her trope is one I struggle to like.
- Her love of malaphors comes from a suggestion from a friend after playing around with her dialogue in how she'd remember words of advice. It was a funny idea that stuck.
- She's ambidextrous but has a tendency to use her left hand more.
- Her journey has a number of inspirations, including Final Fantasy XV, Avatar: The Last Airbender, and my own life. These inspirations are pretty small, though, and are more for the overall story she goes through rather than her as a character.
- Her character specifically is inspired by my disdain for how her trope is commonly done, as I find protagonists that are "good for the sake of it" to be boring unless that train of thought is challenged or their reasoning is more selfish.
- Kezo is the first character made for Forged From Dust dating back to 2017-2018. Her first incarnation was intended to be a protagonist of a slice of life story that was told through her diary.
Kezo is very much a fan of malaphors, or incorrect metaphors. She uses them often and her favorites are ones related to her craft. She won't stretch a metaphor too far as it doesn't roll off the tongue if she forces it.
It's unclear if she knows she's getting metaphors wrong and is doing it on purpose or if she's misremembering common metaphors. Correcting her is futile, though.
— Until her main reference is updated, please see this image for a more accurate depiction of her body type.
Kezo is a stout, dark woman with coily hair and bright eyes. Her ever-present smile shines the most, often creating crow's feet near her eyes. Her beast shows very minimally in the form of small, rounded ears atop her head and a sleek tail ending in a tuft of hair.
She's rarely seen out of her work attire, consisting of her apron, gloves, goggles, and pouch overtop a minimal tunic and plain trousers. The pantlegs may or may not be tucked in.
- She has a stocky build and is top-heavy.
- The symbol on the pocket of Kezo's apron is not optional.
- Kezo should be drawn with a positive expression; she's a very chipper character so she should be drawn as such.
- Please see this tab for in-depth design notes.
Kezo only knows basic self-defense intended to be used against other Noveans. She can utilize her staff to put distance between herself and others, but due to her reluctance to fight, she hasn't dedicated any time to train and hone her skills. This doesn't bother her but it's a question of if she's better off with or without the knowledge. The only thing that she can safely rely on is her stamina and endurance.
Like all Noveans, Kezo possesses magic within her body. This magic, known as Aepiron, enables her to channel the magic present in certain objects. In dire circumstances, this magic reserve can awaken and "power up" the wielder. This enhances their physical capabilities past their limits for a short time. You can find more information about Noveo's magic system here.
- Confident in basic spells.
- Dedication to craft and figuring out unique applications.
- Lack of offensive/defensive uses.
Abilities
Kezo's transformation class Aego is capable of all its expected base spells to an intermediate level.
Her fire focus is self-taught. This enables her to generate fire in the palm of her hand, and as it can still burn her, she only seems to use it with gloves on. She can only control the temperature, making it hard to use as an offense tactic without some creativity.
- Can have a variety of attachments to enable multiple uses.
- All attachments must be crafted by Kezo for the staff.
Abilities
Perhaps the most useful item on her's person, it can have different attachments to enable multiple uses. Kezo figured it'd be useful, even if she is averse to fighting. It's often used as a glorified walking stick.
The list of attachments Kezo has made, in total, are as follows:
- Spearhead
- Hammer head
Kezo only has the spearhead on her person due to its small size and light weight.
TL;DR: "Too Long, Didn't Read"
WARNINGS: None applicable.
- Kezo was born into a noble family that has close ties to the empire. Most Kuwalas end up as artificers and this expectation is put onto Kezo at a young age.
- Due to a few minor incidents as well as her older brother leaving on his journey, she has been indecisive about what she truly wants for years. She's been putting off her own journey to compensate and used the rising tensions as an excuse.
- She's eventually forced to undertake the test of loyalty.
- In the beginning of her journey, Kezo meets and befriends Irit and Macha, who end up traveling with her.
- She starts to doubt the empire's intentions over the course of her journey. Kezo chooses to ignore her intuition.
- There's hope for the future in that she'll be able to convince the royal court to cease the coming war with Ferind.
Chapter One: "Building the Foundation" (The Past)
WARNINGS: None applicable.
Chiyembekezo Kuwala was born to a noble family of high standing. As a Kuwala, she knew early on that her entire life would be dedicated to the throne. It was both a blessing and a curse— most of her family never left Asran's walls and she'd know exactly what she'd be doing in life. But it left no room for true curiosity to blossom as she was confined to the expectations of her craft and her family.
Despite this, Kezo's upbringing was full of luxury. She had little to fear and her only struggles were the burdens of expectation, which she was already living up to. Though like any child, Kezo wasn't free of flaws and mistakes. Her curiosity often got the better of her limited judgment.
It was one cloudy afternoon where she met an interestng girl. Much like herself, she was of nobility and seemed to want an out of her expectations. Kezo figured they could have fun together, and so she skipped out on her studies this one time to adventure around the palace. Though the trouble she got them both into was enough for both children's parents and the girl's to put their feet down. This was the first and last time Kezo would meet with this girl.
With what seemed to be all distractions out of the way, Kezo was on course to become a proper artificer in no time. She'd eventually learn of Asran's trial when her older brother, Pilirani, was sent out on his own when he turned eighteen. This is when Kezo's childhood became unenjoyable; there was extra supervision due to her excursion with the other noble and the only other child she could speak to was currently going around Noveo.
Much of this shaped Kezo's opinion when Pilirani came back. She was fortunate enough to have twin siblings, Tadala and Dalitso, born to their mother during his absence. Yet that muddies the water even further as she's spent her teen years mentally flip-flopping between what to do.
Being indecisive, and the rising conflict with Ferind being the easiest out, Kezo managed to delay her own test of loyalty for several years. It's a bit demeaning to remain as an apprentice when she knows her capabilities, but her mind's (mostly) made up in what she wants to do in life.
Chapter Two: "Braving the Dunes" (The Present)
WARNINGS: None applicable.
Kezo's attempts to prolong her trial forever are futile in the end. Despite her older brother being on her side, the rest of the Royal Court eventually grew tired of the fact that there was only one artificer qualified to do the job in full for a year. There was nothing Kezo could do nor say to assure the Court that they already had her complete loyalty; after all, no one who closely served the Court had ever been appointed without undertaking the Test of Loyalty. So, Kezo is sent on her way with a map, instructions, and some of her tools. The pitying pat on the back and bitter thoughts that swirled in her mind plague her in the very beginning of her journey.
She easily bounces back from her sour mood as she starts to explore and observe all that's around her. While the dunes may be barren, that doesn't mean there's no life or nothing of interest. She makes sure to stop by the settlements near the capital so she can truly get her bearings and see if anyone has directions.
That's where she meets two additional people she starts traveling with: Irit, a lowly thief, and Macha, a bounty hunter.
These skeptical women give Kezo a brilliant idea— if she can change their hearts and put them on the proper path, proving that folks can change, she can go back to Asran and fight to stop the war before it starts! Her idea is initially scrutinized by her new travel companions. Of course it would! They see her as a captor, not an ally. Kezo refuses to let this doubt get to her as she knows peace is an option. And so, ignoring the nagging voice about these two women, Kezo departs for the first location she intends to go to.
Over the course of the journey, Kezo gets both women to open up little by little. But interacting with the common folk and learning more about her traveling buddies starts to make it harder to ignore the nagging in her mind. She starts to doubt much of who she is and what she stands for. Is her loyalty justified? Should traditions be valued over the right thing? Has she ever done the right thing? Does she even know right from wrong?
... No. No, she can't let herself get into her own head. So, despite the stress and weight of reality, Kezo holds onto her optimism and her plan to save the day.
Chapter Three: "Wistful Thinking" (The Future)
WARNINGS: None applicable.
Kezo may not know how she'll get from point A to point B, but she knows she'll get there eventually. In her heart and in the best scenario possible, Kezo will be able to flawlessly tell the royal court exactly what they need to hear to take steps towards peace and not turmoil. She knows that this has to be done quickly and efficiently, but she also can't rush. If there's anything she's learned over the years, it's that patience is a valuable virtue and kindness is always an option.
All she knows is that she'll never let harm come to pass. Even if it's a struggle and she has to make hard decisions, doing what's right is most important. Letting someone be harmed without any rhyme or reason is entirely off the table.
Worst comes to worst, she'll take the fall for the team. The only problem is that she made a promise, and a Kuwala never goes back on one.
This section is written as Kezo's hopes for the future rather than being definitively canon like her past and present. Authorized users can view this tab to access spoilers and learn what happens.
"That Irit... She's been through a lot, more than I'll know. I know she's not a huge fan of me but I made her a promise. A Kuwala never goes back on one of those!"
The Past: First Impressions
Kezo and Irit met in a less than favorable way, as Irit was caught in the act of stealing food at a market. It was the artificer's first impression of commoners outside of Asran and she refused to believe that someone would take food without reason. So, like any rational person, she had followed Irit to question her. But the other woman had begged for her life in the end, much to Kezo's confusion, and she got the explanation she wanted.
After the initial panic, nerves didn't settle on Irit's end when Kezo offered her a deal. It was taken out of necessity and fear, which didn't go over Kezo's head. But the artificer planned on getting through to Irit and figuring out why exactly she had begged to be spared and trails after her with mistrust.
The Present: Attitudes and Dynamic
It's taken some time for both women to adjust to one another. Kezo's learned what to ask and what to avoid talking about. In her pursuit of her goals, she's made sure to check in with Irit and see what is and is't comfortable for her. At first, this felt like walking on eggshells until she engaged in proper discussions with Irit.
Kezo views Irit as a good friend who's a victim of poor circumstances, those of which she isn't fully aware of. She's willing to take as long as the other needs to allow her to open up and be fully comfortable. She celebrates the small victories internally, though isn't afraid to really show her pride in her friend whenever given the chance. The most she does (that Irit seems comfortable with) is getting a small gift here and there.
The Future: Hopes
Ultimately, Kezo wants what's best for Irit. She believes that will come with time being friends, hoping that being a pillar for Irit is enough to aid her mental turmoil. Learning what she has makes Kezo want to push for a better future, not only for herself but for Ferind's people. All she can hope for is that Irit would want to continue their friendship after the journey is over and when the dust has settled.
"For someone who says she's only lived in the sands, something's... not adding up. I'm sure it's fine, Matchstick's just not the social type."
The Past: First Impressions
Kezo's initial encounter with Macha is a bit of a fun story, if not concerning. She saw her being pursued by Asran's guards and her curiosity wouldn't leave her until she investigated. She waited until the woman escaped to make her move, only to be met with scutiny. It's understandable, of course— Kezo proudly brandishes the symbol of the very guards the were pursuing Macha. So while the initial encounter went nowhere, Kezo was persistent with subsequent run-ins.
Much like Irit, Kezo figured that there was more to the story. She struck up a deal with Macha to help her repair her broken swords if the other would earn the parts and swear to not draw her blade against anyone in self-defense. Kezo assumed this was a fairly weak deal, so it was a shock when Macha had actually agreed.
The Present: Attitudes and Dynamic
Not a lot has changed since Kezo first met and started to travel with Macha. The only note-worthy hints of progress lie in Macha being slightly more cooperative and her attentiveness extends to protecting the two women she finds herself with.
Kezo isn't sure what to make of Macha but keeps her true thoughts and feelings locked away. She wants the other to slowly grow more comfortable and practice social engagement, so she'll ignore any of the negatives in the name of recovery and growth.
The Future: Hopes
Ultimately, Kezo wants what's best for Macha. She thinks this lies in the other integrating more into society, mingling with the people they come across and adapting to typical societal customs as opposed to what bounty hunters tend to view as normal. She would like to stay Macha's friend after the journey is over, but she doesn't see herself getting super close to the woman while she remains a bounter hunter.
"Rani's the best... usually. He knows I can handle myself and yet he set me up! I've got some stern words for him."
Pilirani and Kezo have always been super close, through their relationship has strained in both instances of one undertaking Asran's trial of loyalty. He's always been supportive of Kezo but has pushed the idea of individuality to her insistently. While he did get his way, Kezo feels hurt by his decision and tries to ignore that whenever she writes to him.
"Someday, I'll take Rani's position in His Majesty's court. I better introduce myself proper when I can!"
Kezo and Houshang have a very distant relationship, if you can even consider it that. They've interacted a handful of times, though it's usually done through Houshang's attendant, Hadi, given the man's status as emperor. There's the expectation that Kezo will one day be part of his court, and she knows that she'll speak with him more once her journey is over.
"Dali's always itchin' to do something! I think the's the only one in this family that likes the idea of the trial."
Dalitso and Kezo aren't often on the same wavelength due to the younger often siding with their older brother. They butt heads often but there's no malice behind it as Kezo views it as somewhat of a game. She just hopes that Dalitso's refusal of her and Tadala being twins doesn't hurt the family in the end.
"Tadpole's always gone with the flow... too much. But don't worry, they don't call me 'Frog Whisper Kezo' for nothing!"
For as much as she says she doesn't play favorites, Kezo's bias towards Tadala isn't exactly hidden. The two of them get along well despite their stark differences. However, Kezo knows that there's something Tadala hasn't been telling her— she just hopes that she'll open up to Pilirani or Dalitso in her absence.
