Orias Palak is a senior Gelt Warrior, political advisor, and surrogate father figure to Tishla. A veteran of multiple conflicts, Palak commands immense respect both among the Gelt and the humans of Hanar. His transition from battle-hardened Warrior to chancellor of a fragile joint colony symbolizes the Compact Universe’s broader shift from endless wars toward a fragile, hard-won peace.
Though Palak carries the scars—both physical and emotional—of a lifetime spent fighting, he tempers his gruff exterior with profound loyalty, wisdom, and a fierce protective instinct toward Tishla and her daughter, Athena.
Key Traits and Developments:
Mentor and Father Figure:
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Raised within the Warrior Caste, Palak rose to prominence through both battlefield prowess and political acumen.
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During Tishla’s youth, Palak served as a father figure to both her and her future husband, Kai, offering guidance, discipline, and emotional support even within a rigid caste system.
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He remains one of the few individuals who can speak bluntly to Tishla without fear of reprisal—and often does.
Chancellor of Hanar:
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Appointed as Chancellor of Hanar following Tishla’s assumption of leadership.
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Acts as her closest political advisor, often managing day-to-day governance so Tishla can focus on diplomacy and reconciliation efforts.
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His authority among the Gelt helps stabilize the often-tenuous relationship between former invaders and their human counterparts.
- His ability and reputation make him a candidate to become Sovereign, though he is never made aware of this.
Protector:
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Palak’s role extends beyond politics. He insists on Tishla’s security at all times, often frustrating her with heavy-handed protections but preventing numerous threats from reaching her.
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He remains one of the few who remembers Tishla’s original orders during her first overtures to the human survivors—specifically that Bornag was assigned to kill her if necessary, a contingency Palak viewed as a painful but necessary burden.
Philosophy and Approach:
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Palak is deeply pragmatic, valuing peace only if it can be secured without betraying his honor or his people.
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Despite being a career Warrior, he readily supports Tishla’s vision of joint colonization and integration with humans, believing it offers the best future for both species.
Relationship with Tishla:
Palak treats Tishla not only as a political superior but as family. He often acts as a stern but caring mentor, counseling her through crises, supporting her decisions—even when he disagrees—and scolding her for endangering herself unnecessarily.
Their bond is so strong that in moments of private candor, he calls her child—a rare term of affection among Gelt Warriors.
Legacy and Role in the Series:
Palak represents the possibility of change even among the most rigid castes and traditions of Gelt society. His unwavering support for Tishla helps her succeed where many would have failed, and his endorsement of coexistence lends credibility to the fragile alliances forming on Hanar and Amargosa.
He also serves as a living bridge between the old ways of the Gelt Warrior Caste and the emerging culture of postwar Hanar.
Appearances: Tishla's Journey, Storming Amargosa, Half Shell