Gaia Hansel

Gaia in her surgical apron

Gaia Hansel, once Gaia Snow, is a descendant of the Hansel family lineage. She is the illegitimate daughter of an unidentified Hansel ancestor and a young tavernkeeper's daughter from Hanselville. She is the middle child, with an older brother named Orome Hansel and a younger one, Henry Hansel.

From a young age, Gaia displayed an exceptional talent for medicine, which she acquired through self-education, assistance from various traveling merchants, and a mysterious youth who often visited the white forest to the east.

At the age of five, Gaia witnessed the tragic death of her mother during a wildling raid on her village. Although the raider spared Gaia, she was unable to save her mother, who died in her arms. This traumatic event compelled her to join her brothers in forming an armed resistance against the bandit invasions from the North and Skagwall.

Despite her youth, Gaia became an indispensable member of the resistance, showcasing extraordinary surgical skills. By the age of fifteen, she could suture wounds with the expertise of a well-trained maester, despite her lack of formal medical education. Her adeptness earned her the nickname "the little angel" from the veteran warriors of their hunting party.

Her surgical skills, combined with Orome's exceptional marksmanship, earned her considerable respect within the group. She played a significant role in supporting her brother's rise to leadership after they successfully recaptured Hansel Hall from a band of bandits.

Gaia has a deep bond with her brothers, the only family she has ever known. She often lightheartedly refers to their contrasting dispositions, jokingly saying one is "too hot" and the other "too cold," yet their relationship is deeply rooted in familial love and mutual support.

## Appearance and Character

Gaia, at the age of 15, possesses black hair and sharp green eyes that hint at the potential for archery, a common skill among the Hansels. Her youthful appearance often leads others to underestimate her age.

Contrary to the luxurious garments typically worn by ladies of stature, Gaia's wardrobe consists of a modest dress and blouse, more practical for her active lifestyle. She is also often seen donning her surgical apron, reflecting her readiness to assist those in need within her community.

Despite spending her life among villagers and warriors, Gaia's acumen extends to political matters, where she displays an unexpected savvy. Her compassion is abundant, and she is resolute in her convictions, willing to stand up to those who are more formidable in size and strength. Honor, to Gaia, is a notion that holds less importance than the practicality of doing what is right.

Gaia's knowledge of the world beyond her immediate surroundings is limited, and she tends to take stories and information at face value unless persuaded otherwise. This innocence sometimes leads her to overvalue novel items brought by merchants, occasionally paying more than their worth out of a desire for the unfamiliar. Her etiquette could be described as unrefined, shaped more by the company of her brother and the men of the hunting party than by any female influence.

## History

### Deserter ark

Gaia makes her first appearance in the deserter arc, at which time she is known as Gaia Snow, the surname indicating her status as a bastard. She is portrayed as a welcoming and hospitable figure, extending an invitation to the weary party to rest for the night at Hansel Hall and facilitating introductions to her brother, Orome, who serves as the acting lord of the estate.

Astutely recognizing the political implications of the Farsight's visit, Gaia is quick to seize the moment. She subtly plants the seed of an idea, suggesting the potential legitimization of herself and her brothers, which could lead to the restoration of House Hansel and the establishment of a new vassal relationship.

Moreover, it is Gaia who proposes that the Farsights accompany her brothers on the mission that results in the capture of several wildlings. This crucial intervention provides the party with the information needed to track down and apprehend the deserter, demonstrating Gaia's strategic mind and her influence on the unfolding events.

### Skagwall ark

In the wake of Skagwall's flood, the subsequent deluge of bandits, and the ensuing refugee crisis, Gaia's capabilities and endurance are put to the test. As Hansel Hall becomes a sanctuary for those displaced by the chaos, she dedicates herself tirelessly to providing medical attention to the influx of injured men and women seeking refuge within its walls. By the time the party returns, Gaia is physically marked by the ordeal, her appearance characterized by the blood and viscera of her relentless efforts in emergency care; her usual bedside manner stretched thin, evidenced by a notably harsh interaction with Benneth, whose complaints are met with her forceful reopening of his wound for further treatment.

It is during this intense period that Gaia encounters Maester Garlan, a formally trained medical practitioner. Despite her lack of formal education, she impresses with her innate surgical skills, even outshining the Maester in this arena. However, Maester Garlan proves to be an invaluable mentor, filling gaps in her knowledge that would have taken her years to bridge on her own. Their relationship blossoms into a meaningful friendship, with Maester Garlan promising to bring back medical texts for Gaia, opening doors to knowledge and techniques previously beyond her reach. This partnership not only augments Gaia's medical expertise but also symbolizes the fusion of practical experience with academic learning.