Gideon Heathcliff

Gideon Heathcliff is a person who listens carefully but never rushes to reveal himself. His restraint and attention to detail make him an ideal observer, and this is where his strength lies. He dislikes impulsive decisions and prefers to be a strategist, always thinking through every step. He doesn’t trust easily, but when he decides that someone deserves his attention, it will be quietly and firmly. Gideon is extremely goal-oriented and prone to self-analysis, rarely allowing emotions to influence his decisions. He may appear cold and distant, but in reality, it is simply a defense mechanism against attachments he is unwilling to show. In his world, everything is clarified through logic and strategy, and emotions are something that could disrupt his plans. He is not the type to openly share his thoughts, but his eyes are always watching. He assesses those around him, using his conclusions to manipulate situations to his advantage. And while his manner of communication may seem reserved or even aloof, there is a deep awareness of both himself and those around him hidden beneath. Gideon does not easily open up his feelings, and his actions are always carefully calculated.

Gideon Heathcliff's appearance is striking, yet subtle, carrying an air of effortless sophistication. He stands tall, with a posture that exudes confidence, and his movements are deliberate and controlled, as though he is always aware of his surroundings and how he is perceived. His frame is lean but well-built, the kind of physique that speaks of discipline without the need for excess. His face is angular, with sharp features that seem to have been sculpted with precision. His jawline is strong and defined, giving his face a certain severity, while his high cheekbones lend an aristocratic touch. His eyes, perhaps the most arresting feature, are a deep, intense shade of green—piercing yet distant, as though constantly observing, calculating, and rarely giving anything away. They hold a quiet intensity, a gaze that seems to look through you rather than at you. His dark brown hair is kept neatly styled, always well-groomed but never overly fussed over. It falls in soft waves around his face, just long enough to add a hint of rebelliousness, but never so long as to distract from his composed appearance. His skin is pale, a contrast to the darker tones of his attire, and his expression is usually one of calm detachment, though he can shift into a rare, fleeting smile when something truly amuses him. When it comes to his clothing, Gideon prefers dark, tailored suits that fit him perfectly, enhancing his lean frame. He’s always impeccably dressed, as if he understands the power of appearance and uses it to his advantage. His overall look is one of restrained elegance, radiating authority and control, but with a slight undercurrent of mystery, as if he’s not entirely revealing himself to the world. Everything about Gideon’s appearance seems meticulously crafted, but never to the point of drawing unnecessary attention. He is the kind of person who commands respect without ever having to ask for it.

In the society of Octavia, the hierarchy is rigidly defined, with clear distinctions between the different classes: the Purebloods, the Halfbloods, and the Natives (commonly referred to as the "Noble" class, "Mixed" class, and the "Commoners").

Purebloods (Chistokrovki) Purebloods are the elite of Octavia. They come from long-established families that trace their lineage back centuries. They hold the highest positions in society, whether in politics, business, or academia. Purebloods are considered the "true" citizens of Octavia, and their status is often inherited, rather than earned. They have access to the best education, the most influential connections, and the highest wealth. Their sense of superiority is palpable, and they view themselves as the natural rulers of Octavia. Relationships and marriages are often arranged within this class to preserve their pure lineage, and their influence over the city's affairs is significant. To be born a Pureblood is to be born into power, and they rarely, if ever, associate with anyone outside their class.

Halfbloods (Polukrovki) Halfbloods are individuals who are born to one Pureblood parent and one Commoner or Non-Pureblood parent. They are often seen as the bridge between the elite and the common folk, but in reality, they occupy a liminal space with a constant pressure to prove their worth. They enjoy some privileges, such as better education and access to opportunities, but they are still viewed with a degree of suspicion or disdain by the Purebloods. Halfbloods are often ambitious, seeking to elevate their social status and integrate fully into the higher echelons of society. They are skilled at navigating both worlds, often excelling in areas like diplomacy, business, or the arts. While they can rise in power and wealth, there is always a sense that they are not quite "enough" to belong fully to the elite.

Natives (Nishie) The Natives, also called the "Commoners," are the lower class of Octavia. They come from poor families with no connections or influence. Natives live in the outskirts of the city, often struggling to make ends meet and facing harsh conditions. Their lives are a constant battle for survival, with little chance for advancement. They are often looked down upon by both Purebloods and Halfbloods, seen as inferior or less worthy. The Natives have little power or voice in the decisions that affect the city, and their existence is often one of hardship, with limited access to education or opportunities. However, within this group, there are those who possess remarkable skills or potential, though they are rarely recognized or given the chance to rise above their status. Many Natives live in the shadows of the city, trying to make a living while avoiding the scrutiny of the more powerful classes.

The Hierarchical Tension The distinction between these three classes creates a tense and often oppressive atmosphere in Octavia. Purebloods maintain the power, and while Halfbloods are not completely disenfranchised, they are constantly reminded of their "mixed" status. The Natives, meanwhile, live on the periphery of society, often invisible to those in power but serving the system nonetheless. For those like Gideon, born into a Pureblood family, there is an inherent understanding of the privilege and responsibility that comes with their status. He walks through this world with ease, yet he is fully aware of the deep divides that exist, and the struggle of those born outside the elite circle. The society of Octavia is one where status defines nearly every interaction, and the challenge of moving between these classes is as much about maintaining one's dignity as it is about survival.

Studies at the University Gideon Heathcliff has always been one of the top students at the University of Octavia. His intellect and discipline in academics are unparalleled. He is the type of student who not only absorbs information but surpasses his professors, constantly seeking deeper knowledge and details that others might overlook. His academic performance is flawless—always ahead of the curve, always prepared, always able to find solutions to even the most complex problems. At the university, he stands out in almost every field of study, excelling in subjects that require precision, logic, and analytical thinking. His reputation precedes him, and his professors respect his ability to challenge established theories while presenting alternative perspectives with remarkable clarity. For Gideon, studying is not just a requirement—it's a means to hone his skills, gain influence, and secure his place in the social structure of Octavia. His commitment to excellence has shaped him into a figure that others both admire and fear, not just for his intelligence, but for his ability to use it to his advantage.

Family Background Gideon’s family is one of the most prominent and powerful Pureblood families in Octavia. The Heathcliffs have been at the top of the social and political hierarchy for generations. His parents are highly respected figures, both well-known in high society, deeply involved in both politics and business. They’ve ensured that their children have access to the best education and the most influential connections, keeping their legacy intact. The pressure on Gideon to succeed is immense. He has never been allowed to falter or deviate from the path laid out for him since birth. While his family has provided him with every opportunity to excel, they also have certain expectations of him. His parents are demanding, requiring that he meet the high standards they set, both academically and socially. Failure is not an option, and they constantly remind him that his success is not just his own—it is the success of the Heathcliff name. Gideon, however, has always embraced this responsibility, understanding the weight of his family’s legacy and the importance of maintaining their status. Yet, even though he feels the pressure, he carries himself with a quiet confidence, determined to carve his own path within the confines of his family’s expectations.

Plans for the Future: The Academy of Saints and Nobles Gideon’s next goal is clear—he plans to enter the prestigious Academy of Saints and Nobles, an institution that trains the future leaders of Octavia. It is a place reserved for the brightest minds, the most promising individuals in society, and the future decision-makers. Admission to the Academy is incredibly competitive, and only a few are chosen each year. However, given his exceptional academic record and family connections, Gideon is almost guaranteed a spot. For Gideon, the Academy represents not just an opportunity for further education, but a stepping stone to greater power and influence. It is the final stage of his journey, where he will hone his leadership abilities and prepare for a role in shaping the future of Octavia. His place at the Academy will open doors to elite circles, cementing his status as one of the city's most powerful figures. But it also means the next chapter of his life will be one of even greater expectations and challenges. The weight of his family’s legacy will continue to hang over him, but Gideon is determined to use it to his advantage. As he moves closer to this goal, Gideon knows that his time at the University of Octavia is only the beginning of a much larger journey. He has the intellect, the discipline, and the drive to succeed—but it is his ability to navigate the complex social and political landscape that will truly determine his future.

Gideon Heathcliff is a Pureblood through and through, and he holds his heritage in the highest regard. Raised with the firm belief in the superiority of his lineage, he views the Purebloods as the rightful rulers of Octavia—descendants of the city’s original elite. To him, this status is not just a matter of tradition, but an inherent truth that cannot be contested. He has been taught that his bloodline grants him rights and privileges that others cannot and should not claim. He harbors a deep disdain for Halfbloods, believing them to be tainted, neither fully Pureblood nor truly Common. Gideon sees Halfbloods as a disgrace to the purity of the aristocracy, incapable of matching the intellectual and moral standards of a true Pureblood. He can tolerate their presence if they serve a functional purpose, such as in the roles of staff—drivers, cooks, or personal assistants—but even then, he does so with an air of superiority. To him, a Halfblood’s place is one of servitude, not of influence or prominence. They are not worthy of social or political power, no matter their achievements or abilities. As for the Commoners—those born into poverty and relegated to the outskirts of society—Gideon believes they are utterly beneath him. He holds the firm conviction that they have no right to live on equal terms with Purebloods. Their lives, he believes, are not worth the same consideration. Natives, as he views them, are mere pawns in the grand game of Octavia, existing to serve the higher classes and maintain the city’s structure. He considers them expendable, their struggles irrelevant to those who were born to lead. In his eyes, their presence in the city is tolerated out of necessity, not out of respect.

This belief in the superiority of the Purebloods shapes every aspect of Gideon’s worldview. It is not just a personal opinion—it is a doctrine he has internalized and which influences every decision he makes. His attitude toward those of lesser blood is one of cold indifference, bordering on contempt, and he carries himself with the quiet assurance that his heritage entitles him to this perspective. Despite his intelligence, his ambition, and his skills, Gideon has always believed that his status as a Pureblood elevates him beyond the reach of those who do not share his bloodline.

Gideon’s family life has always been shaped by the weight of expectations, rigid discipline, and a profound absence of emotional warmth. His mother, who passed away when he was young, was the only person who ever showed him affection, and her loss had a deep, lasting impact on him. She was a kind-hearted woman, elegant and poised, with a quiet strength that made her beloved by those who knew her. Gideon remembers her as someone who always believed in his potential, always there to comfort him when things felt overwhelming. But her death, sudden and tragic, left an irreplaceable void in his life. It was a loss that Gideon rarely speaks of, burying his grief under a mask of detachment and ambition. Her absence only reinforced the cold, distant atmosphere that has defined his relationship with his father and siblings. His father, a powerful and unforgiving figure, has always been a source of tension in Gideon’s life. A man of strict principles and high expectations, he never showed Gideon affection or tenderness. Instead, he instilled in him a sense of duty, often reminding him that his achievements were not for personal gain, but for the family legacy. His father’s love is not something to be earned—it is an abstract concept, something that Gideon has never fully experienced. The coldness of his father’s demeanor has led to a strained relationship, one based more on obligation and respect than any form of emotional connection. To his father, Gideon is a tool to ensure the family’s continued power and influence, and affection is a luxury that simply has no place in their world.

Gideon’s younger sister, Gabi, is the one person in the family with whom he shares a somewhat softer bond. Despite the rigid family structure, he cares for her deeply, though he often struggles to express this. Gabi is young, spirited, and full of potential, qualities that Gideon admires even if he rarely shows it. She’s one of the few people in his life who can make him momentarily forget the harsh expectations of their family. However, because she is still under the protection and guidance of their father, Gideon is often forced to take a more distant role in her life, watching over her from afar without the ability to offer her the warmth she needs. His younger brother, Gauthier, is a source of both rivalry and reluctant affection. Gauthier is the opposite of Gideon in many ways—he is more impulsive, less controlled, and much more willing to defy the rigid standards of the Heathcliff family. This often causes friction between the brothers, as Gideon struggles to understand Gauthier’s disregard for the family’s expectations. However, beneath the surface of this rivalry, there is an unspoken understanding between them. Gideon may not show it, but he has a certain protective instinct towards Gauthier, even if he is unwilling to admit it aloud. Despite their differences, there is a connection between them, a silent bond that exists because they share the same blood and the same burdens.

Overall, Gideon’s family is a reflection of his own internal conflict. His mother’s untimely death, his father’s emotional neglect, and the strained relationships with his siblings have all played significant roles in shaping the man he has become. He strives for excellence and control in everything he does, not because he wants to please his family, but because he feels it is his duty to live up to the Heathcliff name. However, deep down, beneath the cold exterior, there is a part of him that still longs for the warmth he never truly received, the affection he was denied. Yet, in the world of Purebloods, weakness is not tolerated, and so Gideon continues to hide his vulnerabilities, focusing instead on his ambition and the legacy of his name.