From Wiki

Gautier
Statistics Name Gautier Jean nó Camellia Status Alive Age 43 Class Middle Class Rank Dowayne Affiliation House Camellia Themesong 'Miserere - Andrea Bocelli' Quote "I am saying that a lot of people speak about Elua and how love should be free because they cannot hope of being a persian prince" Portrayed by  Osvaldo Rios App Status Taken

Gautier Jean nó Camellia returned to the City of Elua on the 14th of Fevrier, 1185.

Contents 1 Background 1.1 Early On 1.2 The Two Courts 2 Dramatis Personae 2.1 People from the past 2.2 The closest circle 2.3 Those who make a difference 2.4 Acquaintances and Curiosities 3 Trivia 4 Soundtrack 5 Statue 6 Verse

Background

Early On

Raised by the cassiline brotherhood with the expectation of becoming one of them, it is said Gautier was well on his track to achieving their goal when something he does not discuss made him choose otherwise. As the time neared for the discussion of his vow of celibacy he exchanged a long look with his mentor, then nodded once and left the brotherhood without a single word of explanation to move into the halls of Naamah instead,

He started late, but his prior training was complementary in many aspects to the new one so that it was never too hard for him to catch up. Eventually his marque was bought by the house of Camellia, but that in itself implies his being well acquainted and proficient with each one of the others. His voice was his instrument of choice and his handicraft ceramic sculpture, both of which helped him throughout the years more than he thought they might at the time.

Perfection was always the name of the game for this one, and its continuous pursuit has taken Gautier through the strangest and most memorable of times. Eventually it took him away from the night court itself and into the world in the service of a very special patron whom he doesn't often name. He's on his forties now, and returning to the city at long last for who knows what reasons of his own.

The Two Courts

Gautier has always had a close relationship with both courts, though it was much less so when he returned to the city. For a while he remained away from both, simply reacquainting himself with the city and the differences he found both from what it was before and what he got used to in the last years. Since then he has made some progress in his approach to the two in different levels.

The Night Court

Returning to Camellia House, Gautier has made himself well known among both flowers and patrons for his knowledge and understanding of the subtleties of the relationships between the houses and the relations in between them. Having been trained in almost every one of them for some time, he finds it easy to identify himself with most of the flowers. Some better than others, of course.

He has been one of those to point out the way the Garden was being divided by walls and jealousies rather than united, and has since worked to unite the courtesans through mutual sharing and knowledge rather than imposing or commanding. There appears to be some following in that, where some of the young ones have begun visiting and learning from other houses friendship and canons regardless of what they are officially taught. Some may disagree with it, but it hasn't been challenged so far.

After hosting a few events at Camellia and following the first council meeting since the longest winter, Gautier has finally accepted the position of Second for his house, and this was marked shortly after by a ceremonial Showing. Perfect, they say. Those who are close to him are the only ones to know just how he feels about it, otherwise, he has been taking care of his duties religiously and finding ways to make them need less and less attention.

Not one to be indiscriminate about Patronage, Gautier's known patrons are few and chosen carefully in most cases. They also tend to return repeatedly, and it is rumored that he is prosperous enough to be very picky. It is also said that he has of late stopped taking new patrons, but rumors are always exaggerated.

The last council meeting was hosted by himself at Camellia, following the sudden journey of Maylea to her family, and it was the first to address the topics that needed to be taken care of at last. Since then he has remained close to the council members as possible, particularly since his return from progress, and taken the mantle of Dowayneship a few days after the longest night of 1185. It was a quiet exchange, and Maylea left in the morning towards an undisclosed destination.

The Eluan Court

Soon after his return to Camellia, Gautier's first visit to court was escorting one of his patrons to the spring ball. Another patron to a different party, and the High Priestess of Naamah herself was seen adorning his arm (or vice versa) during the last Ducal Elevation. Other events followed and later it was said that he had been seen in the palace itself, often enough in company of the Queen, simply re-exploring the gardens or talking to an older courtier about odds and ends. For a while that appeared to be the extent of his involvement.

With the court going on Progress through the lands Gautier left among their number, and if rumors are to be believed he is becoming rather well known in their circle. Things that happened in the Kusheline lands have left a rather strong imprint on many of those in the royal circle, and change is in the air as winter comes to its due.

More and more is the Camellia Dowayne seen now by the Queen's side or her by his, whether it is in Camellia House, at the palace or somewhere in between. He has also been seen at the palace, enjoying the company of a few older courtiers and some younger ones.

Dramatis Personae

People from the past

Amadora Moretti (deceased) - An acquaintance of old, Amadora ended up having more things in common with Gautier than either of them could have imagined they ever would at the time they first met. Then they danced to the sound of music, now they do to the sound of the rain against the window. Or he does.

Amarante (deceased) - One of the few people Gautier could look up to for answers or thoughts, Amarante was both wise and centered as well as the perfect example of her canon. Seeing her again on his return made him realize that not all the Mont Nuit he once knew was gone. Her loss proved much more shaking because of that.

Eliresse de la Courcel (deceased) - Perhaps some remember the young group of flowers that used to often grace the palace, the former Queen and her courtiers' presence so many years ago. Some stayed longer than others, but fewer and fewer as they moved on without quite being replaced in the last few years of her reign. Gautier doesn't remember much either, or at least doesn't talk about it. Not that many would know to bring it up if he doesn't do so first, of course, but it is known he was one of them.

Fauve Trevalion - Friend and now-and-then patron. Gautier cherishes the rare times with Fauve because they are filled with fun and games. There is always something to say about experience, and they both have plenty of it.

Hermès de Trevalion - A long time ago the Trevalion heir was known to favour House Camellia over all others, so the two cannot be full strangers. However, the few times they have been seen face to face since their return to the city have been cordial and brief, like old acquaintances if anything. Some have remarked that they do seem to avoid each other, and those who know Gautier well enough may have a little more information.

Maylea - On their first meeting Gautier thought her too young to lead the house. He was disabused of that notion probably after the first few words they exchanged. After a long talk she welcomed him back to the House. Even if she is not Solaine Gautier seems to feel a certain kinship with her. Perhaps because the two aspire to the same goals. Perfection is not easy at all. Since his return from the progress Gautier had been shouldering more and more of her responsibilities for some reason, until she finally left the city and then.. well, he took them all.

Nevelon - Another contemporary. Gautier and Nevelon always looked at each other like the opposite sides of the coin. So alike and so different each are what the other once saw himself as. His take in the last council of Mont Nuit surprised Gautier enough, but perhaps it shouldn't have. The two are not in speaking terms any longer at least.

Prosper Achilles - A retired courtesan and once Dowayne, Prosper knew Gautier when they were both starting out. Their views on service and love are polar opposites, but while they discuss them and taunt each other there is always a sense of camaraderie in between the two. Prosper seems to have left town of late, perhaps to follow another calling of his straying love.

Renaud - They hadn't seen much of each other in years, but Gautier recently met him again. The two have been seen to exchange amused jabs at each other and memories from the past, with Renaud even talking about Gautier's debut as if he had been allowed to stay up till the end. It is said Renaud's mother, Aimee, was one of Gautier's favourite teachers.

Solaine (NPC) - The ex-Dowayne of Camellia is someone Gautier trusted for a long time. He didn't expect to find her gone upon his return, and in some ways he still looks for her in different places and times.

The closest circle

Athenais de Morhban - The friendship between the Dowayne and Her Majesty began one simple day when she decided to attend a matinee in House Camellia hosted by the recently returned Gautier. There have been many rumors about their liaison, and whereas she has been known to spend the night under his roof a few times the pair have made no official announcements. He is often seen in her company though, both during social events and more encompassing ones such as the last progress to Kusheth as well as disappearing into the gardens for a walk. One would wonder if they meet often with Nicolas the Grey.

Gabrielle - Becoming almost a sister or a daughter to him from the day they met, Gabrielle would keep finding Gautier here and there to share a few words or ask for advice, even at times to give it. She has given him much and he recognizes it, even if at times it may seem that he is being rather cruel with her. There are reasons for everything of course, and Gautier can often be found to have more than one for what he does. There are rumors, founded or not, about there being more than that of late.

Genevieve - Amarante's shadow aptly named. Gautier doesn't quite tiptoe around her, but their interactions are often enough fraught with subtle innuendos, checks and balances. There appears to be a clear wariness there, but also mutual respect and admiration. If there has ever been anything else, it is not a public thing, either. Of course, neither of them are too much of a public person. It is said Genevieve and Gautier have known each other forever. Perhaps that has some truth in it, since they both trained in Mandrake and are of similar ages.

Jeanette (NPC) - Together with those chosen to become Camellia there are those few born to the house who are family. Jeanette is one of them and refused to leave when her mother did. She seems to be blooming well and Gautier somewhat dotes on her at times, keeping a good eye on her progress at least. It is said she is the only one allowed in his room when he is not around. Or maybe that's just what she says.

Marcello Giordano - A strange friendship, that of Fox and Hawk. Some are privy to more of it than others, but they have been seen drinking together on occasion. The boutique is one of Gautier's favorite places to visit, and Marcello has been spotted entering Camellia House more than once. They are rumored to have a few lovers in common, and even the doubtful paternity of a child. They were seen together during progress as well, and back from it. There is always more than meets the eye, of course, and a certain kind of implicit trust between the two.

Renaut Bergier (NPC) - The retired Cassiline Prefect is still much of Gautier's father figure. Once his mentor, he knows more than most about where he comes from and where he is going to.

Those who make a difference

Adela L'envers - The very first person Gautier actually spoke with when he returned to the city, the pair have shared many talks on friendship, human nature, true names and sensuality. Gautier was conspicuously absent at her wedding though, and after it they only recently met again after her husband's passing. While not the best of circumstances they seem to be in good terms now, with her spending the night at Camellia and all. He does owe her a talk since Kusheth, but there is so much to do and so little time. Perhaps soon.

Ariana - There is some kind of tension between these two. They do see eye to eye on the goals perhaps, but when it comes to the means they rarely rub elbows without chafing. Gautier finds her charming and a rather good example of her canon, but his taunting appear to be taken the wrong way more often than not, and that doesn't make for quick friends. They seem to have reached a balance of late, though, but which way it will incline in the future is hard to tell.

Aura Metaxas - The former marquisan guildmistress was a very special patron until she crossed the line. Before leaving the city she told at least one other person that her unborn child was Gautier's, but when asked directly she made it abundantly clear that it is just her own. He shunned her since, yet there is something still there, lurking. He hasn't been to the marquist since.

Bastien de Morhban - The King of Terre d'Ange is met with respect by Gautier. He doesn't have anything bad to say about him and on the contrary, if asked, he will declare that he is a man of principles and a true D'Angeline. The loyalties he provokes and the hearts he holds are not to be dismissed, and if anything he will be found to approve of the younger man. Rumors abound of their having 'words' in Kusheth, but he dismisses them if brought up, that particular time of their life one he doesn't care much to speak of. Their meetings have been few and far between, so there doesn't seem to be a steadfast friendship between the two.

Briar D'Rosiers Renaud - There have been a few random encounters with the redhaired beauty. At first it was somewhat good natured, then they left a bitter taste in Gautier's mouth. Briar judges without basis and is far too quick to assume, yet of late something seems to have changed. It is much like the sea, Gautier may have been heard to say, the azzallese are quick to ebb and flow with the tides of thought and the currents of events. She has been seen visiting Camellia of late, some times for a few minutes, and sometimes longer. It is not that camellia adepts gossip, but there are always rumors for those who want to listen.

Caranissima - Gautier's hope once. The ragazza as he called her then is now gone from the city, and with her some of his laughter. It is probably for the best, though. He recognizes now that while she could have been molded into what he wanted her to be her heart was nowhere near it. There are moments still when he misses her of course, but they never last too long.

Chérame Shahrizai - Gautier used to be seen escorting the Baronne Shahrizai to different social events once, and it is rumored that she had his contract written up and signed even before her past arrivals to the house. They have also been seen in other places, eating and talking, or wagering among friends. They get along with each other rather well at that, whether or not the talk of screams heard is true or not. More recently they have been seen together much less, particularly with his taking up more responsibilities and her..well, she is doing the same of course.

Evangeline - Evangeline moved lately to the same home Tierney occupied once, which in itself is ironic. They are very different women though, and Gautier still keeps quiet on whether he thinks that a good thing or not. On the other hand he welcomes the young woman's visits and questions and will give his advice freely to her when requested.

Joie - A late comer into the House, Gautier has welcomed her with open arms and looks forwards to spending more time with her as need and duty allow.

Lunaire - Things have not gone well between these two. It is said Gautier doesn't very much care about hearing of the Eglantine's news if there are any, and when brought up in conversation he is more likely to frown than to smile. And that, for Gautier, is rare.

Mireal - It is hard for Gautier to find good things to say about Mireal. There was a clear anti-chemistry between the two from the beginning. It is her manner perhaps, or what he considers her way of trying to twist his words around to suit her purposes and hear whatever she wants to hear. Her resignation of her position as head of Cereus was met with more than amusement, or so it is said.

Nyah - This priestess has become Gautier's favorite person with which to think things out loud. Nevertheless he doesn't quite like her gift, and does his best to stay away from it even if she has promised not to use it. A very warm and serene person, the courtesan believes she has a good head in her shoulders and respects her opinion greatly.

Acquaintances and Curiosities

Aglae - Recently met, the young bloom has been known to bring a smile to Gautier's face now and then. Truly, he is not Genevieve, but still it is not that easy either.

Celine - The first true example of the Cereus canon that Gautier has appeared to approve of for some reason. The meetings have been few and far between but he seems to find an appreciation for the Cereus Dowayne that the previous ones haven't been able to achieve. One hoped it would last, but then he's had his own business to take care of.

Christine (Deceased) - Prosper's daughter, Christine's Dowayneship of Heliotrope didn't bring much betterment to a house that, to him, was already far too lax on the rules as it is. To tell the truth Gautier had become very disappointed with Christine for some time, between her focusing her attention on her lover rather than the house and her leaving a partially-marqued courtesan in charge rather than one of the older ones, so her retirement was welcome. Her passing, though, was grieved like most are.

Dhanyata - So very Bhodistani. Their acquaintance has been short, but he admits she knows her business and has a steady head in her shoulders. A good addition to his trusted circle in the Garden perhaps.

Cypres - In a way Cypres wants the same Gautier wants. Or so he says. There is a certain tension between the two when together, but it is unknown what it might be due to.

Decimus Correl (deceased) - It is more what he heard of than what he heard from, but Decimus' death weighs upon Gautier for different motives. Woulda shoulda coulda, right?.

Doliana Darcel - The young caerdiccan has spurred more than a few thoughts in Gautier's mind, though they don't meet that often. There is curiosity and respect in between the two, though hardly more.

Donatien Shahrizai - The Kusheline Duc has proved entertaining conversation more than in the past, and when Gautier realized how comfortable others feel in his presence he started to make a point in watching him a little more closely. When possible.

Estelle de Malestroit - Gautier had encountered feelings about this woman, coming less than one night's interaction. These were strong already, but a conversation afterwards has only confirmed his misgivings. He doesn't quite seek her company since, and when he is about her he is both very courteous and polite. Just like she is.

Emilio Gennaro - Some conversations are unforgettable, and Emilio's pearls of wisdom and perfection will never be.

Eugene Renaud Decesased- The two met briefly and not in the most fortunate of circumstances. Truth be told, Eugene makes for a rather sullen groom, and Gautier wasn't much in the mood either. After his passing there wasn't much for Gautier to think of him, but perhaps that is also changing.

Eutychios "The Dreamer" - A brief acquaintance, but Gautier is looking forwards to seeing whatever new play the Hellas man comes up with. Last minute or not.

Florian - There is conflict there. The two have had encountered words on a very special wager. Once Florian drew blood with a comment, but it soon healed and turned around to kick the younger man's behind. No hard feelings, though, things may get better or worse yet.

Gerard de Perigueux - The captain of the Libertie earned both Gautier's respect and dismissal when he questioned his motives. He sees him as a man of honor if misguided, and would likely deal with him again.

Guy Lafoy - The only person who has earned a full blown punch from the courtesan since his return to the city. Gautier thinks very little of this chirurgeon and will more often than not leave when he is around.

Henrie de Fontaine - A long time ago Henrie used to visit Camellia rather frequently with his friends, but since returning Gautier has only heard of him from his mother.

Inez - A very fun woman, they have agreed not to wager against each other. There is no need to, really, since they seem to always end up bidding on the same outcomes. He'll miss her betimes.

Isabelle - Dowayne Isabelle has left a very positive impression in Gautier's mind, both by the things he has heard and the way Alyssum flowers hold their own within the court. This has been confirmed in the few short conversations they have had, and he knows her now for someone he can talk to and share ideas as an equal.

Jehanne L'envers - The former Duchess is somewhat different than most people he has known, but he has been seen talking to her now and then. As one of the Queen's ladies he has become rather acquainted with her, but he doesn't truly speak about her or her motives to resign her duties.

Kalyani - A new return to the Garden, Kalyani is another one from Gautier's generation who is returning now. It might be a good thing to have her about, but he hasn't had time to talk to her much as of yet.

Lamond - Beauty and fun, Lamond does not only know more than most about Mont Nuit but also shows a keen understanding of how and when to make a timely exit. Sheep indeed.

Maia (deceased) - Beautiful Bejewelled Maia. Gautier enjoyed sharing tea and flattery with her, though her attempts at seduction did not seem to profit. He still wonders about her loss, and just what may have happened to her on the very eve of the Trevalion's ascension to the ducal seat. Coincidences never are.

Néomie de Fontaine - The lady visited Camellia's courtyard once and Gautier offered himself as guide. A talk of mutual acquaintances ensued and the pair seems to have enjoyed the walk quite well. Next time shall be tea, in Eisande, that is, if he ever gets to go there.

Pascal - A beautiful figure and cut, Pascal's debut served as backdrop for many things. The two haven't quite talked yet, but he has heard good things and plans on hearing more.

Simone - The first meeting with Simone was perhaps much less controversial than the last. Gautier liked her style at first sight at least, and the discovery was apparently mutual. He enjoys her company when possible, and now he has learned to lock the door when awkwardness is not desired. A win-win situation if one asks him.

Thomas - The returning Dowayne is a mystery to Gautier, but a welcome one at least. He has heard enough to know that it is a good change and intends to talk to the gentleman soon enough. There was a young Thomas in Valerian when he left, perhaps it is the same one.

Tierney - The marquess saw Gautier as soon as he arrived in the city and invited him into her dreams. For as long as she thought she could seduce him, at least. Gautier still has a good opinion of her of course, and often imagines how she may be enjoying la Serenissima these days.

Tristan - Gautier may have been overheard saying that the former Bryony Dowayne changes his mind as often as his underwear, but he was certainly joking. Tristan probably doesn't wear any, after all. Truly, Gautier is curious as of his motives and wished to learn more about him, but then he retired, so that is out of the question now.

to be added

Simon de Mereliot - Foulque D'Andronic - Prisca - Andreas - Kyrielle - Atalaya - Antonius - Tihamyr - Josephine (NPC) - Aurora - Etienne (NPC) -

</pre>

Trivia

~~"The Gautier does not Cry" was a phrase that stuck around for a while among those who knew the courtesan, its coinage lost in time. It doesn't mean that he doesn't feel pain or enjoys it, apparently, for it didn't keep him in Valerian House for too long.

~~At the time when many night flowers visited the Eluan court nightly, Gautier was one of those who did it more often. Once called the 'voice' among them, Gautier hasn't been heard singing since his return to the city.

~~He holds a very special view of Mont Nuit, the thirteen Houses, Naamah's service, and the spiritual world. Sometimes so to the point of elitism.

Soundtrack

Statue

Verse

Excerpts from "Hertha" by Algernon Charles Swinburne

01. Beside or above me Nought is there to go Love or unlove me, Unknow me or know, I am that which unloves me and loves; I am stricken, and I am the blow. 02. Have I set such a star To show light on thy brow That thou sawest from afar What I show to thee now? Have ye spoken as brethren together, the sun and the mountains and thou?

03. A creed is a rod, And a crown is of night; But this thing is God, To be man with thy might, To grow straight in the strength of thy spirit, and live out thy life as the light. 04. I am in thee to save thee, As my soul in thee saith; Give thou as I gave thee, Thy life-blood and breath, Green leaves of thy labour, white flowers of thy thought, and red fruit of thy death,

05. Be the ways of thy giving As mine were to thee; The free life of thy living, Be the gift of it free; Not as servant to lord, nor as master to slave, shalt thou give thee to me. 06. I bid you but be; I have need not of prayer; I have need of you free As your mouths of mine air; That my heart may be greater within me, beholding the fruits of me fair.