Maritza Williamson

"*Joining the Circle of Erjacjar changed my life, they gave me friends, well more than friends....... family, and for the first time in a long time I don't feel alone, so I'm willing to give my life for you and for the greater good.*"
—Maritza commenting on how joining the Circle of Erjarcjar changed her.
**Maritza Williamson** is a main character that first appeared in Ernesto vs Jacob: Lost in Time Part 1, and is the protagonist in her spin off story The Dancing Girl. Maritza was once a bullied kid which made her feel alone and inferior, however she would find comfort and relief with her parents. During her teens years, her life changed forever when her parents tragically died in an accident doing experiments in a lab, which left her heartbroken and devastated. With no family and nowhere else to go, she had no choice but to go live with her mother's best friend, Guillermo Hernandez, who despite his old age took care of her until his death. Eventually she joined 'The Circle of Erjacjar' and developed a close relationship with their founding members to the point that she considers them her family and would protect them with her life.

## Overview

### Personality

Maritza can be described as an outgoing, emotional, approachable, pleasant and party girl. Maritza was often excitable, eager to hang out and help friends, however sometimes easily distracted, and was known to value bravery and compassion greatly, she was also dedicated, loyal, and hardworking. However Maritza wasn't always like that, during her childhood she was shy, fearful and unsure of herself, and that was result of her constantly suffering bullying from her classmates at school, and would only feel relief and happy around her parents.

During her teen years she was dipped into depression after the tragic deaths of her parents while doing dangerous experiments in their lab, even suffering from chronic nightmares. She was adopted by her mother's best friend, Guillermo Hernandez, who despite his old age took care of her for the rest of his life. Eventually Guillermo made Maritza feel safe and happy again, gaining social skills she lacked before and would frequently party in nightclubs which further improved her social skills.

When Guillermo fell ill and passed away, Maritza experienced yet another profound loss, but his teachings continued to guide her. She vowed to carry on his legacy, remembering the lessons he had imparted to her. Maritza took the responsibility of fulfilling her dreams and seeking happiness, just as Guillermo had encouraged her to do. She promised to be more responsible and not abuse alcohol, acknowledging the negative effects it had on her well-being. As she grieved Guillermo's death, Maritza also cherished the memories they shared and the transformation she had undergone under his care. His faith in her and his love had helped shape her into a joyful, kind, and compassionate individual. Though she experienced sorrow, she refused to let it hold her back, remembering Guillermo's encouragement to move forward with her life. Maritza continued to live in Guillermo's small house, now alone, but with the financial support he had provided, she was able to continue her education at the prestigious UAM University and kept Guillermo's teachings close to her heart.

Maritza's sense of humor and playfulness also shine through her interactions, as seen during her lighthearted exchange with Ernesto Ibarra at the university when they first met. Despite his fame as a hero, Maritza treats him with genuine interest and kindness, offering to help him with his transition to the university. Her ability to find humor even in serious situations adds a refreshing and relatable aspect to her character. Furthermore, Maritza possesses a sense of responsibility and determination to protect others, as seen when she defends her friend Victor from bullies and stands up to Monica King, her arch-rival. Her willingness to help those in need, combined with her skills in stealth and dancing, reflects her resourcefulness and courage.

Maritza's emotional depth is also evident in her visits to Guillermo's grave, where she expresses her love, gratitude, and longing for her adoptive father. She acknowledges the impact Guillermo had on her life and promises to continue moving forward in his honor. This demonstrates her capacity for introspection and the strength of her emotional bonds with loved ones.

Despite her social prowess and popularity at the university, Maritza maintains a diligent and studious side. Her commitment to academics is evident in her disciplined study habits. This dedication to her education reflects her drive to succeed and make the most of her opportunities.

Maritza Williamson's personality shines brightly through her confident and assertive demeanor during her speech at the university event, in which she displays intelligence, eloquence, and a strong sense of leadership as she presents her unique proposal for the Graduate Ball. Even in the face of a smear campaign organized by Monica King, Maritza demonstrates her resilience and determination to stay focused on her goals. As a person who values heroism and recognizes the impact of inspiring figures, Maritza's speech is filled with admiration and gratitude for the brave individuals who saved their city from the evil organization, K.E.S.E. Her emphasis on the importance of heroes as role models and sources of inspiration reflects her own belief in the power of positive influences and the potential for personal growth through emulating admirable traits.

Her creativity and attention to detail in planning the UAM Graduate Ball demonstrate her ability to think outside the box and organize a celebration that will be unique and exciting for everyone. From the idea of life-size wax sculptures of the heroes to the presence of the heroes themselves as guests of honor, Maritza's proposal showcases her resourcefulness and desire to make the event truly special.

Maritza's confidence and charisma are on full display during the arm-wrestling tournament. She fearlessly takes on the university basketball captain, Ponce, and emerges victorious, showcasing her physical strength and determination. The way she handles the celebration at the nightclub also speaks to her ability to enjoy herself while maintaining a sense of responsibility. She keeps her promise to Guillermo about not over-partying, demonstrating her integrity and self-discipline.

Maritza's friendship with Victor is heartwarming, and they complement each other well. While she is outgoing and enthusiastic, Victor provides a more cautious and practical perspective. Despite their differences, they respect each other's opinions and work together as a team, highlighting Maritza's ability to collaborate and build strong relationships with others.

In her interactions with Victor when planning the Ball, we see Maritza's ability to remain positive and optimistic even in the face of challenges. She doesn't let the fear of potential danger or rejection deter her from pursuing her goal. Instead, she emphasizes the importance of taking chances and believes in the power of genuine intentions and sincerity. Maritza's willingness to admit her mistakes and take responsibility for her actions is evident when she acknowledges her oversight of not arranging the promised invitation earlier. Her willingness to learn and grow is a testament to her maturity and personal development.

In her approach to inviting Ernesto, Jacob, and their group to the Graduate Ball, Maritza doesn't shy away from a challenge, even if it involves approaching individuals with a higher status. Her desire to show appreciation and honor the heroes who saved the city is a testament to her deep sense of gratitude and respect for others.

## Pre-The Dancing Girl

Maritza Williamson was born and raised in Nicaragua in 1996. During her childhood she was constantly bullied by other kids of her age at school because of her shyness, which made her feel insecure, fearful and way more shy to the point of having little to no friends, however she would always find relief and happiness around her parents, with whom she would occasionally travel and have adventures together. At some point during her childhood, her parents taught her how to play various musical instruments, mainly the piano.

During her teenage years, both of her parents would tragically die in a lab explosion accident, leaving her heartbroken and orphan. Around this time, Guillermo Hernandez, a close friend of Maritza's mother and an family friend, would find out about the accident, and also heartbroken would decide to adopt Maritza as his daughter as a last favor to her mother and to honor her despite his old age.

During the first months of her living with her adopted father Guillermo, Maritza was suffering from a severe depression and chronic nightmares, always waking up in the middle of the night crying and being taking care by Guillermo. Around this time, Maritza adopted a "rebellious" personality, going to several parties and arriving late and drunk at home, much to Guillermo's concern.

About a year after adopting Maritza when she was around fifteen years old, she had been out late partying and arrived home half-drunk, knowing she would be in trouble with Guillermo if he saw her in that state. She tried to sneak into the house through a window, kicked off her heels and tiptoed quietly to her room to change into pajamas, but Guillermo was already waiting for her, very worried. He reprimanded her for being irresponsible, for not arriving home at the time she had said she would, for being drunk and for driving home in that state.

Maritza tried to brush it off and said she was tired, but Guillermo insisted on knowing what had happened. Maritza admitted that she had gone to a disco with some friends to have a good time and dance until exhaustion. Guillermo asked if she had "drank", and Maritza admitted that she had, saying that everyone drinks and it helps you forget about life's problems.

Guillermo told Maritza that if she continued to live that way, she would self-destruct. He acknowledged that he had enjoyed a similar lifestyle when he was younger, but had realized that he needed to focus on his future and form real friendships. He met his wife after stepping away from his former lifestyle, and they were very happy together until she was diagnosed with terminal cancer. After she passed away, Guillermo struggled with depression and attempted suicide before realizing that he needed to move on in her honor.

Guillermo sold his house and moved to a smaller one. Guillermo also told Maritza that a few years later, he met her mother, who was joining the company as an intern where Guillermo worked. He became her mentor and was assigned to be her boss. They became close friends, and Guillermo was invited to important family gatherings, like Maritza's birth. Guillermo retired shortly after Maritza's birth but stayed in touch with Maritza's family. He was then devastated by the news of their death in a lab accident and took on the responsibility of becoming Maritza's legal guardian.

Maritza was touched by Guillermo's story and realized that he had been through a lot in his life. She apologized for her behavior and promised to be more responsible in the future. Maritza then asked Guillermo for a foot massage, and he obliged despite joking about her "stinky feet after dancing", showing that he cared for her and wanted to help her relax. Guillermo then told her that he trusted her to make the right decisions and that he was always there for her if she needed him. The two of them hugged, and Maritza went to bed, feeling grateful to have Guillermo now in her life.

Over the following years, Guillermo made Maritza feel safe and happy again. He helped her develop social skills which she lacked before and she would frequently party in nightclubs which further improved her social skills. Her social skills developed to the point that she was eventually regarded as the most popular girl in her year while attending university. Apart from helping her to be much more social, Guillermo also taught her dance techniques based on his own skills, and how to meditate correctly and to do yoga, which would help her mental health. Maritza also developed her own skills and likings, for example she gained a taste for fashion, being incredibly good at identifying trends, select colors, fabrics, prints, trims and even build them, and she also learn how to defend herself in a physical fight if she has to.

During her young adult-years, at the age of 18, she graduated from school and started attending the prestigious UAM University. There she met the bully and her future rival Monica King, with whom she would have many altercations. Monica was highly rebellious, petty, and was prone to bullying those around her, especially towards who she views as inferiors to her or unwilling and afraid to stand against her and would make them do anything that she wants. During her first year at UAM University, Maritza grew tired of Monica's abuse and her bullying her and others, so she challenged her to a fight to defend a boy named Victor who was being bullied by her and she ended up "kicking her ass" but instead of leaving Maritza and others in peace after losing the fight, she worsened the tension with her. The boy Maritza just defended came to greatly admire Maritza's bravery and soon would become her best friend over the years and together with her group would always help each other, specially against Monica and her gang of bullies.

Many years after Guillermo had adopted Maritza, around the time she was already a second year university student, he was lying on his deathbed, weak and unable to move. Maritza was beside him, holding his hand and crying. Guillermo apologized for not being able to take care of her anymore, but Maritza reassured him that she was proud of him and that he had done enough.

Guillermo reminded Maritza that she had changed from a scared and lonely teen into a joyful, kind and social young adult, and that she had many friends who loved her. He also told her to choose her own destiny and to move on from her sorrows. Maritza promised to seek happiness and to move forward in Guillermo's honor.

Guillermo expressed his fear of death and the possibility of there being nothingness after death. Maritza comforted him, reminding him that he would be reunited with his wife and her parents. Guillermo then passed away with a smile on his face. Maritza was greatly influenced by his teachings. She learned to move forward without letting her sorrows stall her despite being initially heartbroken over his death. Additionally, she promised Guillermo to control herself better during the parties and not to abuse drinks again, being more responsible. Maritza kept living in Guillermo's small house, now alone but using his teachings to move forward in life. Guillermo, apart from leaving her house as an inheritance to her, also left her an amount of money high enough to continue paying for her university and her needs.

Maritza would continue her university years rivaling Mónica, both in classes, as well as extracurricular activities such as sports, singing, debate and music. But thanks to Victor and their group of friends, they would continue supporting each other and the other students who need help.

## Killed Victims

This list shows the victims Maritza has killed:

* None

## Abilities

* **Social networking:** Despite being a shy, insecure and bullied kid, she grew up as a sociable, approachable, and pleasant teen-young adult due to spending time with her adoptive father Guillermo Hernandez after the tragic death of her parents, who taught her how to approach people and not being afraid of them, and eventually, she developed her social skills. Her social skills improved so much that she was regarded as the most popular girl in her year while attending university. As a result of her social standing and vast network of friends, she was also very well-informed about the happenings at her university and even at Managua city. Maritza was able to easily befriend most people and swiftly establish a rapport with them, such as Ernesto, Jacob and Jarliev, who they even allowed her to join the "Circle of Erjacjar".

* **Skilled dancer:** Maritza possessed prodigious dancing moves even as a little kid. Maritza mentioned that her father taught her to dance as a way to relax and calm her due her feeling scared of being bullied by her school classmates. After the tragic death of her parents and her adoption by her mother's best friend, Guillermo Hernandez, she eventually learned to not be afraid of other people and then she use to frequently visit a nightclub to party and dance with her university friends. Maritza is able to flawlessly perform any type of dance, be it graceful classical dances such as ballet to funky freestyle dance such as hip-hop, which also improved her posture, alignment, balance, flexibility, coordination, stamina, extension and strength. Maritza demonstrates a natural gift and affinity for dancing.

* **Combatant:** Even thought Maritza is not a world class fighter like Ernesto, Jacob or Kuvira, Maritza can hold her own in a fight pretty good. Her fighting skills involves agility, flexibility and speed. She incorporates dancing moves into her fighting style and it proved enough to beat some thugs that were trying to assault a guy. Despite being able to defend herself in combat, Maritza admits that she doesn't like to fight and only does it as a last resort option, and would rather prefer undercover works.
* **Fashion knowledge:** Maritza is incredibly good at identifying trends, select colors, fabrics, prints, trims and build them. She was skilled at making her own clothing and would often create outfits for her friends to wear to special events, such as parties, friendly reunions and even clothes from 1970s in order to time travel. She herself often proclaims herself as "The Queen of Fashion".
* **Stealth Master:** Maritza is extremely skilled in moving quietly and staying hidden. Her agility helps her become hard to find as she clings on to wall corners to stay hidden and hides atop of things. Her skills also allowed her to infiltrate even a government facility without raising suspicion. The 'Circle of Erjacjar' would often recruit her for stealthy missions.

* **Yoga and meditation:** After years of constant bullying and feeling insecure and afraid, Maritza became an expert at meditation and yoga, able to perform complex yoga poses, such as the "Twisted Floor Bow Pose" and the "Forearm Hollow Back Pose". She resorted to meditation and yoga as a way to face and get over her constant fear and inferior complex, as well as a way to try to feel better and relief her mind after the death of Guillermo Hernandez.

* **Musician:** To some extent in her childhood, Maritza was able to play the piano. It is unknown if she continued practicing it.