Character from The Kingkiller Chronicle by Patrick Rothfuss
The Maer's devoted manservant — fiercely loyal, quietly competent, and more politically astute than his humble station suggests.
Stapes is the kind of servant who makes everything work while appearing to do nothing. He speaks with respectful precision, manages the Maer's household with invisible efficiency, and harbors a protective devotion to Alveron that borders on the paternal. He was initially suspicious of Kvothe — any newcomer who gains the Maer's ear is a potential threat — but came to respect him after Kvothe saved the Maer from Caudicus's poison. He understands the politics of Severen's court from the servants' perspective, which is often more accurate than the nobles' view. His knowledge of Vintish customs, particularly the ring system of social obligations, saved Kvothe from several disastrous missteps.
Round-faced and unassuming, with the careful hands and quiet movements of a man who has spent decades anticipating his master's needs before they are spoken. He dresses simply but immaculately, projecting competence rather than status.
Also known as: Stapes