Shalheya

This article has a separate continuity. This article is in the Berkley Novelizations separate continuity, which is related to the Original Series. Be sure that your contributions to this article reflect the characters and events specific to this continuity only.

Shalheya is a leading actress in Dwybolt's theatrical company. She serves as both performer and Dwybolt's romantic partner, struggling with jealousy over his past relationship with Cassiopeia during their time aboard the battlestar Galactica.

Background

Shalheya is an experienced actress who has been with Dwybolt's theater company for an extended period. She has performed in numerous productions with the troupe as they toured various ships in the Fleet, including performances on cattle ships and other less prestigious venues. She is described as having a "long-legged figure" and "pretty face," with long black hair that she habitually strokes when nervous or emotional.

Shalheya demonstrates considerable theatrical skill and has played a variety of roles, including villainous parts in productions such as "The Scorpion Watchtower trilogy." She is known for her dramatic abilities and her mastery of theatrical techniques, including measured pauses and the ability to switch between different acting approaches depending on the requirements of a scene.

Relationship with Dwybolt

Shalheya maintains a complex romantic relationship with Dwybolt, serving as both his leading lady and primary emotional support. She often provides him with encouragement during his periods of self-doubt, particularly before performances at new venues. When Dwybolt becomes apprehensive about their upcoming performance on Galactica, Shalheya reminds him of the significance of the opportunity, telling him "This is the big time, remember? Your chance. You deserve it."

Despite their relationship, Shalheya shows awareness of Dwybolt's continued feelings for his former lover, Cassiopeia. During private moments, she confronts him about his lingering thoughts of the former socialator, leading to intimate conversations about their past. When Dwybolt admits he often thinks of Cassiopeia, Shalheya provides physical comfort by massaging his shoulders, while simultaneously pressing him for details about their former relationship.

Her jealousy becomes particularly evident during their preparations for the Galactica performances, where she frequently makes pointed comments about Dwybolt's emotional state and his motivations. She demonstrates a deep understanding of Dwybolt's character, often providing both encouragement and criticism as needed to maintain his focus on their work.

Encounter with Cassiopeia

Shalheya's world is disrupted when Dwybolt's former lover, Cassiopeia, arrives at their landing bay on Galactica. Observing Dwybolt's reaction to seeing Cassiopeia again, Shalheya immediately recognizes the threat to their relationship. She watches with growing concern as Dwybolt "lost his equilibrium with the appearance of his old flame" and "couldn't contain his joy."

During the subsequent interactions between Dwybolt and Cassiopeia, Shalheya finds herself increasingly isolated and bitter. She attributes Dwybolt's improved mood during rehearsals entirely "to his constant contact with Cassiopeia" rather than his professional excitement about performing on the prestigious command ship.

Her jealousy reaches a peak when she observes Dwybolt and Cassiopeia in conversation, noting that despite their "ordinary and unemotional" words, she "detected layers of affection in everything Dwybolt and Cassiopeia said." The sight of them standing "close together and were smiling much too much" particularly disturbs her.

Professional Tensions

The arrival of Cassiopeia creates significant professional complications for Shalheya. When Cassiopeia and Hera approach Dwybolt with a request to perform their specially written curtain-raiser, Shalheya becomes increasingly suspicious of Dwybolt's motivations for agreeing to the collaboration. She confronts him directly about whether he is "doing it because the great love of your life has suddenly reappeared and you want to please her."

When Dwybolt attempts to justify his decision based on the play's artistic merits, Shalheya becomes more confrontational, using her theatrical skills to dramatic effect. She employs "the pause she used in more villainous roles" before demanding to know "What power does this lady have over you, Dwybolt?" Her frustration leads her to call him a fool and initially walk away from the conversation.

However, her professional instincts override her personal emotions when Dwybolt mentions there is "a good part in this for you," immediately rekindling her interest in the project despite her reservations about his motivations.

Theatrical Performances

Throughout their time on Galactica, Shalheya demonstrates her professional competence in various roles. She performs alongside Lucifer (in his disguise as "Trogla") in one of their productions, playing a character who declares her love for the mysterious warrior. Her performance is noted for its theatrical flair and her "throaty style" of delivery.

Shalheya also takes charge of practical matters, helping to settle Boxey and Peri when they join the company as child actors. She provides them with acting tips and guidance, demonstrating her nurturing side despite her own emotional turmoil. When Peri perceptively asks if she loves Dwybolt, Shalheya initially deflects with humor before admitting "Yes, I suppose I do."

Supporting Dwybolt

Despite her jealousy and frustrations, Shalheya consistently provides emotional support to Dwybolt during crucial moments. When the Great Franda abandons the company just before their major performance, leaving Dwybolt devastated, Shalheya comforts him and helps him process the disappointment. She takes the farewell note from Dwybolt's hands, reads it herself, and offers consolation, eventually embracing him and declaring "Oh, Dwybolt, I do love you."

When the crisis threatens to derail their performance, Shalheya helps Dwybolt find a solution, supporting his decision to take on Franda's abandoned role himself. Her practical nature and professional dedication help keep the company functioning during this difficult period.

Personal Growth and Resolution

By the final performance, Shalheya appears to have reached some level of acceptance regarding her relationship with Dwybolt and his past with Cassiopeia. When she approaches Dwybolt backstage and asks "Still carrying a torch, eh, Dwybolt?" his response that he has no torch and is "over it" provides her with some reassurance. Though she suspects he may be acting, she chooses to accept his performance, recognizing it as "the kind of slick performance she wanted from him."

When Dwybolt puts his arms around her and tells her she is beautiful, Shalheya relaxes in his embrace, choosing to focus on the present moment rather than dwelling on past insecurities. This represents a significant emotional development for her character, showing her ability to prioritize their relationship and their shared professional future over her jealous concerns.