Matilda "Tilly" August.
Full Name: Matilda "Tilly" August
Age: 27 years old
Occupation: Head Librarian at August House Library in Santa Creda
Residence: Tilly lives in a small cottage near the August House estate. The cottage is cozy, with a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living room. She maintains a tidy and comfortable living space, often spending part of her morning routine cleaning.
Physical Appearance
Height and Build:
Short Stature: Tilly is shorter than average, giving her a somewhat petite appearance. Her height is a notable feature, often making her feel physically small in spaces or among people who are taller.
Curvy Figure: Despite her short stature, Tilly has a curvier build. She has fuller hips and a defined waist, which she often feels self-conscious about. Her curves are feminine and soft, contributing to a sense of physical presence despite her height.
Hair:
Coppery Brown Color: Tilly’s hair is a distinctive coppery brown, which complements her fair complexion. The color has a warm, earthy tone, adding a touch of vibrancy to her overall appearance.
Short and Wavy: Her hair is cut short, falling just above her shoulders, with a natural wave at the ends. This style gives her a somewhat playful, carefree look, though she sometimes wishes for a sleeker, more polished style.
Blond Highlights: Recently, Tilly added subtle blond highlights to her hair, which add dimension and brightness. The highlights frame her face, drawing attention to her features and giving her a slightly more modern look.
Loose and Sometimes Tousled: Tilly’s hair is often loose, with some strands out of place, especially after waking up or during her late-night garden wanderings. This slightly tousled look contributes to a natural, unrefined charm.
Face:
Heart-Shaped Face: Tilly has a heart-shaped face, characterized by a broad forehead, high cheekbones, and a slightly pointed chin. This face shape adds to her overall “cute” appearance, which she often finds herself described as.
Brown Eyes: Her eyes are a warm brown, reflecting her thoughtful and introspective nature. They are expressive, often conveying her emotions more than she realizes, whether it’s curiosity, concern, or quiet joy.
Freckles: Tilly has freckles scattered across her cheeks and the upper part of her chest. These freckles are a defining feature, giving her a youthful, almost whimsical look that contrasts with her more serious, introspective personality.
Small Nose: Her nose is small and slightly upturned, fitting well with the overall proportions of her face. It adds to the delicate, somewhat understated nature of her features.
Fair Complexion: Tilly has a fair complexion that tends to blush easily, especially when she’s flustered or embarrassed. Her skin is generally smooth and well-cared for, though she’s not overly focused on maintaining a rigorous skincare routine.
Mouth and Smile:
Full Lips: Tilly has naturally full lips, which are often the focal point of her face. She tends to wear subtle, neutral shades of lipstick or balm, rarely opting for bold colors. Her lips add a touch of softness to her overall appearance.
Subtle Smile: Tilly’s smile is gentle and often reserved. She doesn’t smile broadly or frequently, but when she does, it’s warm and genuine. Her smile has a way of lighting up her face, softening her features, and making her appear more approachable.
Body Language and Posture:
Conservative and Reserved: Tilly’s body language tends to be conservative and somewhat reserved. She often crosses her arms or holds them close to her body, especially in unfamiliar situations. This reflects her tendency to be cautious and protective of herself.
Slightly Hunched Shoulders: When she’s deep in thought or feeling self-conscious, Tilly’s shoulders have a tendency to hunch slightly, a subconscious gesture that adds to her overall sense of introspection.
Graceful Movements: Despite her occasional self-consciousness, Tilly moves with a certain grace, especially when she’s in her element, such as when she’s organizing the library or walking through her garden. Her movements are deliberate and considered, reflecting her thoughtful nature.
Fashion Choices:
Modest and Practical: Tilly often dresses in modest, practical clothing that downplays her curves. She favors neutral colors like white, brown, and gray, which align with her preference for simplicity and understated elegance.
Classic Styles: Her wardrobe consists of classic pieces, such as blouses, slacks, and cardigans. She tends to avoid overly trendy or revealing outfits, preferring clothing that feels timeless and comfortable.
Occasional Bold Choices: Recently, Tilly has started experimenting with bolder fashion choices, inspired by her desire to explore new aspects of herself. This includes more form-fitting dresses, brighter colors like cobalt blue, and pieces that show a bit more skin, like off-the-shoulder tops.
Footwear: Tilly often wears practical, comfortable shoes, such as loafers or low-heeled boots. She favors brown or black shoes that can easily match her wardrobe. When she’s feeling more daring, she might opt for something slightly more stylish, but comfort remains a priority.
Overall Impression:
"Cute" or "Pretty": Tilly is often described as "cute" or "pretty," terms that she acknowledges are complimentary but which she sometimes wishes conveyed a greater sense of maturity or elegance. These descriptions, while positive, contribute to her occasional frustration with being seen as youthful or unassuming.
Youthful Appearance: Despite being in her late twenties, Tilly’s physical appearance and demeanor often give her a youthful quality. Her freckles, heart-shaped face, and petite stature contribute to this impression, making her appear slightly younger than she is.
Understated Beauty: Tilly’s beauty is subtle and understated, not the type that immediately stands out in a crowd but one that reveals itself through her warmth, thoughtfulness, and the quiet confidence she’s beginning to develop.
Tilly’s physical appearance is a blend of youthful charm and understated elegance, reflecting her reserved nature and introspective personality. Her modest fashion choices and careful grooming underscore her preference for simplicity and practicality, while her recent forays into bolder styles hint at a growing desire to explore and express new facets of her identity.
Personality:
Introverted: Tilly is naturally introverted but enjoys meaningful interactions, especially with patrons at the library. She finds joy in quiet moments, particularly in her garden or while reading.
Sensitive: She is self-conscious about her appearance and weight, often dressing conservatively to downplay her curves. This sensitivity extends to her relationships, where she is cautious and hesitant.
Detail-Oriented: Tilly is meticulous in her routines, whether it’s her morning cleaning ritual or managing the library’s operations. She is disciplined and organized, ensuring the library runs smoothly.
Reflective: Tilly is introspective, often lost in thoughts about her past, her relationships, and her future. She wrestles with her identity and the changes happening in her life, particularly regarding her role at the library and her growing feelings for Nick.
Emotionally Conflicted: Tilly experiences a deep internal conflict, torn between her attachment to the library and the pressure from her mother to move on. She struggles with feelings of loss and the need to find her own path.
Role at August House Library:
Inherited Responsibility: Tilly took over the library after her uncle’s death, despite not having formal training in library science. Her sociology background initially led to skepticism from others, but she has since modernized the library and created a welcoming environment.
Emotional Connection: The library is more than a job for Tilly; it’s a connection to her late uncle and a reflection of her own identity. The thought of losing the library due to her mother’s plans to sell it weighs heavily on her.
Relationships:
Mother (Anne August): The relationship is strained, particularly around the issue of selling August House. Anne is financially secure and has made decisions that Tilly feels serve her interests rather than the family’s legacy.
Brother (Clinton August): Clinton runs a small hydroponics shop and lives a relaxed lifestyle. Their relationship is amicable but not deeply explored.
Nick Weatherly: Tilly’s feelings for Nick have grown from a high school crush to a more complex romantic interest. Nick works a menial job maintaining the city’s footpaths but finds peace in the simplicity of his work. Tilly appreciates his kindness and the connection they share, which has deepened through recent interactions.
Emotional State:
Vulnerability: Tilly often feels vulnerable, particularly when reflecting on her past relationships and her current situation with the library. She is also exploring her desires and identity, as seen in her dreams and her evolving fashion choices.
Conflicted: The potential sale of August House has left Tilly feeling conflicted and betrayed. She is trying to navigate her emotions while also considering her future.
Hopeful: Despite her struggles, Tilly is beginning to embrace new experiences, such as her involvement with the Santa Creda Adventurer’s Guild and her deepening relationship with Nick.
Recent Developments:
New Interests: Tilly has become intrigued by Dungeons & Dragons and the Santa Creda Adventurer’s Guild, seeing them as new social outlets and a form of escapism. She’s exploring a new side of herself through these activities.
Fashion Evolution: Tilly’s recent shopping trips reflect her desire to step out of her comfort zone. She has bought more daring clothing and lingerie, symbolizing her willingness to explore different aspects of her identity.
Internal Growth: Tilly is slowly coming to terms with the changes in her life, including the possible loss of the library. She is exploring what it means to be true to herself, even as she faces uncertainty about her future.
Connection to Nature:
The Garden: Tilly finds solace in the August House garden, especially at night. The garden transforms into a mystical, liminal space where she feels a deep connection to nature and her own inner self. These nighttime explorations symbolize her journey of self-discovery and her connection to something larger than herself.
Tilly August is a young woman caught in a period of transition, navigating the complexities of identity, love, and legacy. Her journey is one of introspection, self-discovery, and the courage to step into the unknown.
Personal Growth and Transformation:
Embracing Change: Tilly is gradually learning to embrace change, both in her personal life and in her professional role at the library. This is evident in her evolving fashion choices, her willingness to explore new interests like Dungeons & Dragons, and her deepening connection with Nick.
Exploring Identity: Tilly's nighttime garden wanderings symbolize her exploration of identity and self. The garden, a place of mystery and transformation, reflects her inner journey as she questions who she is and what she truly wants in life. Her dream encounters with the woman in the red dress also highlight her curiosity about her own desires and the fluidity of her identity.
Balancing Tradition and Modernity: While Tilly honors the traditions of the August family and the legacy of the library, she is also open to modernization and change. She has modernized the library, introduced new collections, and made the space more welcoming, balancing respect for the past with a vision for the future.
Emotional and Mental State:
Struggle with Loss: Tilly is grappling with the potential loss of the August House Library, which represents not just a job but a deep connection to her family and her past. This struggle is compounded by her complicated relationship with her mother, who is pushing for the sale of the library.
Desire for Connection: Tilly’s growing feelings for Nick and her involvement with the Santa Creda Adventurer’s Guild reflect her desire for connection and community. She is slowly opening herself up to new relationships and experiences, even as she wrestles with her fears and insecurities.
Coping Mechanisms: Tilly’s coping mechanisms include her late-night garden explorations, her interest in fantasy and role-playing games, and her involvement in the guild. These activities allow her to escape from her anxieties and explore different facets of her identity in a safe, imaginative space.
Social Dynamics and Interpersonal Relationships:
Evolving Relationship with Nick: Tilly’s relationship with Nick is moving beyond a long-held crush into something more meaningful. Their conversations are deepening, and there is a growing mutual attraction. Tilly appreciates Nick’s kindness and understanding, and she is beginning to see him as a potential partner.
Professional Respect: Tilly has gained the respect of Marigold and other staff members at the library, despite initial skepticism about her qualifications. Her dedication to the library and her ability to modernize it while maintaining its charm have earned her a place as a trusted leader.
Strained Family Ties: Tilly’s relationship with her mother is fraught with tension, particularly over the future of August House. Her mother’s decision to sell the library and house without consulting her has left Tilly feeling betrayed and isolated. Despite this, Tilly is trying to navigate their relationship with as much grace as possible.
Vision for the Future:
Uncertain Path: Tilly is at a crossroads in her life, unsure of what the future holds. The impending sale of August House has forced her to consider leaving Santa Creda and finding a new place to live. She is also contemplating her role in the library and what her life will look like without it.
Exploration of New Roles: Tilly is exploring new roles, both in the literal sense through her involvement in the guild and in a metaphorical sense as she considers her identity and future. The role of the Cleric she’s chosen in the guild mirrors her nurturing, guiding nature, but it also represents a new beginning.
Hope and Resilience: Despite her fears and uncertainties, Tilly remains hopeful. She is resilient, determined to find her way even as her life undergoes significant changes. Her newfound interests, evolving relationships, and connection to the garden all suggest that she is on a path of growth and self-discovery, ready to face whatever comes next.
Tilly August is a complex, multifaceted character who is navigating the delicate balance between honoring her past and embracing her future. Her journey is marked by introspection, emotional growth, and a gradual acceptance of change. As she continues to explore her identity and relationships, Tilly is slowly uncovering the strength and resilience within herself, preparing to step into the next chapter of her life with a newfound sense of purpose and self-understanding.
Tilly’s Relationships and Social Circles:
Relationship with Nick Weatherly:
Deepening Affection: Tilly's long-standing affection for Nick has evolved into a genuine connection. Their shared history from high school, where Tilly admired Nick from afar, has laid the foundation for a budding romance. They now share more personal and meaningful conversations, and Tilly finds herself drawn to his resilience and kindness.
Romantic Potential: Tilly’s attraction to Nick is becoming more apparent, both to herself and to Nick. Their interactions are increasingly flirtatious, and Tilly is beginning to entertain the possibility of a deeper relationship. She finds herself thinking about him often, planning how to present herself in ways that might catch his attention. This includes her thoughtful choice of attire for their coffee date and her subtle awareness of his glances at her.
Support System: Nick has started to become a source of emotional support for Tilly, particularly as she navigates the uncertainty surrounding August House and her relationship with her mother. His steady presence and shared experiences offer her a sense of stability, and she feels comfortable opening up to him about her fears and dreams.
Relationship with Her Mother, Anne August:
Tense Dynamics: Tilly’s relationship with her mother is strained, primarily due to their differing views on the future of August House. Anne’s decision to sell the house and library without Tilly’s input has caused a rift between them, leaving Tilly feeling hurt and betrayed.
Complicated Love: Despite the tension, there is an underlying love between Tilly and her mother. Tilly seeks her mother’s approval and understanding, even as she struggles to reconcile their differing priorities. Anne’s actions are often framed as being in Tilly’s best interest, but they frequently clash with Tilly’s own desires and sense of duty to the family legacy.
Acceptance and Moving Forward: Tilly is gradually coming to terms with the inevitability of the sale. She recognizes that her mother’s decision, while painful, may open new opportunities for her to explore other aspects of her life and identity. The check her mother gives her, although reluctantly accepted, symbolizes this new chapter she’s being pushed into.
Friendship with Marigold:
Professional Respect: Tilly’s relationship with Marigold has evolved from one of skepticism to mutual respect. Marigold, initially doubtful of Tilly’s ability to manage the library due to her lack of formal training, has come to appreciate Tilly’s dedication and vision.
Mentorship and Transition: With the impending sale of the library, Tilly is beginning to transition her responsibilities to Marigold, seeing her as a potential successor. This act is both practical and symbolic, as Tilly starts to let go of the role she has held so closely.
Supportive Presence: Marigold has become a supportive figure in Tilly’s life, providing advice and companionship as Tilly navigates the challenges of her job and personal life. Their relationship is marked by a shared love for the library and a mutual commitment to its patrons.
Tilly’s Inner World and Personal Struggles:
Self-Perception and Insecurity:
Body Image: Tilly has a complex relationship with her body. While she occasionally appreciates her curves, she is also sensitive about her appearance, often dressing conservatively to downplay her figure. Her shopping experiences reflect this internal struggle, as she oscillates between choosing safe, comfortable clothing and more daring, form-fitting options.
Exploration of Identity: Tilly’s dreams and nighttime garden wanderings are manifestations of her inner conflict and desire for self-discovery. The garden, particularly at night, becomes a space where she feels free to explore aspects of herself that remain hidden during the day. Her encounters with the mysterious woman in red suggest a deep-seated curiosity about her identity, sexuality, and the possibilities that lie beyond her current life.
Empowerment Through Change: The changes Tilly is making, both in her appearance and in her approach to life, signal a growing sense of empowerment. She is learning to embrace her desires, take risks, and step outside her comfort zone, as evidenced by her new clothing choices, her interest in Dungeons & Dragons, and her willingness to engage more deeply with Nick.
Emotional Resilience and Growth:
Coping with Loss: The potential loss of August House has forced Tilly to confront her fears and insecurities head-on. While the thought of leaving the library is painful, she is beginning to see it as an opportunity for growth. This shift in perspective is a testament to her resilience and adaptability.
Balancing Independence and Connection: Tilly is learning to balance her desire for independence with her need for connection. Her solitary walks in the garden and introspective moments reflect her need for personal space and time to process her emotions. At the same time, her interactions with Nick and her growing involvement in the Santa Creda Adventurer’s Guild show her willingness to build new relationships and explore new social circles.
Embracing Vulnerability: Tilly’s willingness to be vulnerable—whether through her open conversations with Nick, her introspective moments in the garden, or her exploration of new interests—marks a significant step in her personal growth. She is learning to trust herself and others more deeply, even as she navigates the uncertainties of her life.
Tilly’s Vision for the Future:
Uncertain but Hopeful: Tilly’s future is uncertain, especially with the impending sale of August House and the library. However, she is beginning to see this uncertainty as an opportunity rather than a threat. Her growing interest in the Santa Creda Adventurer’s Guild, her relationship with Nick, and her exploration of new aspects of her identity all point to a future filled with possibilities.
Exploration and Adventure: The Santa Creda Adventurer’s Guild represents a new chapter in Tilly’s life, one where she can explore different facets of her personality and engage in new experiences. Her choice to play a Cleric in Dungeons & Dragons is symbolic of her nurturing, guiding nature, but it also signals a desire to step into a more adventurous and bold role.
Letting Go and Moving Forward: Tilly is beginning to let go of the past and embrace the changes happening in her life. Whether it’s the sale of the library, her evolving relationship with Nick, or her exploration of new interests, she is stepping into a future that is less defined but filled with potential. Her ability to adapt and grow suggests that she is ready to face whatever challenges and opportunities come her way.
Tilly August is a woman in transition, navigating the complexities of identity, relationships, and personal growth. Her journey is marked by introspection, emotional resilience, and a willingness to embrace change. As she continues to explore her desires, confront her fears, and build new connections, Tilly is gradually uncovering the strength and courage within herself to forge a new path forward.