Kibble
Overview
Kibble is an ethereal Chimera resembling a cat or rabbit, who serves as the Alter Ego companion of Auraq (Awmar). Kibble emerged from The Tumult during the ceremony for Awmar’s mother’s transmutation and has been his constant companion ever since.
Appearance
Kibble is some kind of cat or rabbit judging by its large ears. Its body is ethereal, like a soap bubble with iridescent reflections. Its eyes are mismatched, expressive and mischievous, just like its hopping and erratic movements.
First Encounter
At the Tumult Singularity
When Awmar’s mother’s body was taken to a Tumult Singularity for transmutation, Awmar insisted on being part of the procession despite the danger. They advanced towards the moiré waves and laid her body at the edge of the Singularity.
Just as Awmar was about to turn away, a strange creature emerged from The Tumult to sniff at his mother’s remains. The Chimera watched Awmar’s mother’s being and essence fracture and dissipate, carried away by the erratic effluvia of The Tumult.
The Consolation
The Tumult entity approached Awmar and simply placed its paw on his arm, as if to console him in his loss. This brief contact broke the vicious cycle of disgust and affliction that he inflicted on himself internally during his grief over his mother’s death.
Bonding with Awmar
Unexpectedly, the Chimera remained close to Awmar, always in the vicinity, even when least expected. He saw it nap on the roof of the trailer and play with the children or the caravan herds. It seemed to follow them in their wanderings, and him in particular.
Gradually, it came to sleep at the foot of his bed, to share their meals, providing a welcome daily distraction. Despite the pain of loss, it sometimes managed to elicit a smile from him, particularly when it begged for the kibble usually given to the caravan’s yaks.
Somewhere, it was as if one soul (his mother’s) had departed, and another had come to take its place. Awmar named the Chimera Kibble after this behavior.
Role in Awmar’s Recovery
Kibble’s presence allowed Awmar to slowly climb back up the slope of grief. Following this, Awmar endeavored to take on the roles left vacant by his mother and do them justice. Kibble became an integral part of his life and performances.
Relationship with Auraq
Kibble loved it when Auraq (Awmar’s stage persona) took over, always eager to accompany her when she left her dressing room. Beside Auraq before performances, Kibble yawns lazily as she stretches, providing companionship and support.
Personality
Kibble is:
- Mischievous and expressive
- Playful (plays with children and caravan herds)
- Comforting and empathetic
- Loyal to Awmar/Auraq
- Food-motivated (loves begging for kibble)
Nature
As a creature that emerged from The Tumult during a transmutation ceremony, Kibble may have a special connection to the transition between life and the realm of memories and dreams. Its ethereal, soap-bubble-like form reflects its otherworldly origins.
Role as Alter Ego
Kibble serves as Auraq’s Alter Ego in the Rediscovery Endeavor, accompanying them as a Lyra Exalt.
Timeline
393 AC, June-September - Shadow Attack in City of Scholars
During shadow attack in City of Scholars caverns, Kibble was targeted by entities that specifically pursued Alter Egos, prompting Auraq to protect the Chimera while Atsadi summoned Lernaean Hydra.
393 AC, June-September - Man in the Maze Consultation
Kibble nestled against Auraq’s neck during consultation with Man in the Maze Eidolon, sensing Auraq’s conflicted feelings about Fen’s quest for The Song of One.
Relationships
- Auraq: Bonded partner and performer companion
- Atsadi: Bravos Exalt who fought alongside Auraq during shadow attack (393 AC)
- Teija: Muna Exalt who fought alongside Auraq during shadow attack (393 AC)
- Nauraa: Teija’s giant fox Alter Ego, also targeted during shadow attack (393 AC)
- Fen: Lyra Exalt whom Kibble grew fond of during Storvhit expedition (393 AC)
- Man in the Maze: Eidolon present during Auraq’s consultation about Fen (393 AC)