Full name:

Tobias Jedidiah "TJ" Hess

• Species: Canada Lynx (Lynx canadensis)

• Gender: Male

• Age:19 years old

• Height: 5'7" (170.18 cm)

• Fur Color: Grey and white with black stripes

Appearance

TJ is a Canada lynx with thick grey and white fur accented by black stripes on his cheeks and ears. His face features soft tufts of fur along the sides and head, giving him a gentle appearance. Athletic from years of playing soccer, his lean build makes him agile, though not particularly muscular. He stands as the second shortest member of his friend group, taller only than Jenna.

TJ’s typical outfit includes a red and black polo shirt tucked into tan pants, along with a chain necklace bearing a cross symbol.

Personality

TJ is characterized by his sensitive, compassionate, and altruistic nature. He is known for being deeply empathetic, often putting others' needs before his own. While his kindness sometimes leads to others taking advantage of him, his optimistic and cheerful demeanor remains a cornerstone of his character.

Despite his usual positivity, TJ struggles with anxiety, a challenge he has faced since childhood. He is prone to crying under stress and can become overwhelmed in intense situations. However, his faith and active involvement in his church community provide him with a sense of stability and purpose.

He is also deeply devoted to Christianity, regularly attending church and supporting inclusivity within his faith. TJ believes in judging people based on their intentions and actions rather than their identities.

Background

Early Life
TJ was born in Wasatchua, a small town in "The Great White North" (likely Canada), and moved to Echo in 2001 at the age of six. His father’s work as a surveyor brought the family to the area. TJ’s transition to life in Echo was difficult—he faced bullying from peers like Jeremy and Clint, and Chase, his childhood friend, frequently teased him as well.

In 2003, TJ witnessed a traumatic event: the drowning of Sydney in Lake Emma. This incident left a lasting emotional scar, despite years of therapy and counseling.

By high school, TJ had adopted his current nickname, preferring "TJ" over his full name, Tobias.

Later High School Years and College
While still in high school, TJ briefly dated Heather, though the relationship was more of an awkward attempt to help her fit in. He later founded a Bible study group but struggled to attract members outside his friend Julian.

After graduating, TJ enrolled at CCU, a Christian university, where he pursued athletic training and joined the soccer team and a Christian singles club.

Role in Route 65

In Route 65, TJ mistakenly attends a Day of the Dead party wearing a ghost costume, believing it to be a costume party. His awkwardness at the party leads to a misunderstanding with partygoers, resulting in him being humiliated and upset. Despite this, he continues to show kindness and support to his friends, notably Chase, when he comes out to him.

Trivia

• TJ’s favorite sport is soccer, which he has played for much of his life.

• He is deeply affected by his faith and sees it as a guiding principle for treating others with kindness.

• TJ often struggles to stand up for himself but expresses regret when he doesn't.

Positive Traits

• Kindness: TJ consistently demonstrates compassion and empathy, always seeking to help others.

• Optimism: His cheerful and positive outlook uplifts those around him, even in difficult situations.

• Charitability: TJ often puts others' needs before his own, showing genuine selflessness.

• Devotion: His dedication to his faith and values guides his actions and gives him a sense of purpose.

• Supportiveness: He is a loyal friend who offers encouragement and understanding, especially during emotional or personal challenges.

Negative Traits

• Naïveté: TJ’s trusting nature can make him an easy target for manipulation or exploitation.

• Sensitivity: He is easily overwhelmed by stress and prone to crying or shutting down in intense situations.

• Conflict Avoidance: TJ struggles to stand up for himself, often deferring to others even when he’s being mistreated.

• Anxiety: His longstanding struggles with anxiety make it difficult for him to cope with unexpected challenges or confrontations.

Neutral Traits

• Devotion to Faith: While TJ’s religious beliefs provide him with strength, they also shape his perspective in ways that may not align with everyone.

• Altruism: Though admirable, TJ’s tendency to prioritize others can sometimes result in neglecting his own needs.

• Emotional Transparency: His openness about his feelings fosters trust, but it can also leave him vulnerable.

• Politeness: TJ’s careful choice of words and actions makes him likable but can also prevent him from being assertive when needed.