Species: Laputan
Affiliation: Laputan Guardianship (Consular Service)
Status: Active (as of 429 IE)
Known For: Assisting Tishla‘s escape to Armaneya
Overview
Delda Rallis is a seasoned Laputan consular official with a storied past and a reputation for discretion. He served in the Laputan–Gelt War of First Contact, during which he had a brief but formative encounter with a young Lattus Kai—one that later shaped his bond with Kai’s widow, Tishla.
Connection to Lattus Kai
Delda’s history with Tishla begins with her late husband, Lattus Kai, whom he first encountered as a young Gelt combatant. In the heat of a skirmish, Kai stabbed Delda with a dagger, marking the start of a bizarre but ultimately respectful enmity. Years later, Kai extended a traditional Gelt gesture of reconciliation by gifting Delda a different blade—an act signifying respect and the end of hostilities. The two reportedly kept in contact in the years that followed.
Role in Tishla’s Journey
In 429 IE, Tishla receives a message and Kai’s gifted dagger following his death, with a note instructing her to find Delda Rallis on Metis. When she does, Delda immediately recognizes both the blade and the situation’s urgency. Recalling both the literal and symbolic meaning of the dagger, he drops everything to assist her, leveraging his diplomatic status to extract her from Metis without interference.
He escorts Tishla to Armaneya, the Laputan orbital city above Ramcat, where she is reunited with Lattus Brac, her late husband’s brother. Delda’s actions mark him as both a man of duty and deep personal loyalty, embodying the more honorable traditions of the Laputan Guardianship.
Character Traits and Legacy
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Veteran Diplomat: Skilled at navigating interstellar politics and understanding the subtleties of foreign customs, especially in Gelt and Compact territory.
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Warrior’s Memory: Though no longer in active military service, he wears his ponytail draped over the right shoulder, signifying his veteran status.
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Personal Code: Delda follows a strict internal code shaped by both Laputan values and personal experience. His readiness to help Tishla, a former enemy species, reflects the best ideals of the Guardian’s Peace.
Appearances: Tishla's Journey, Suicide Gambit