TV-Series
Description
Gilbert F. Altstein is a supporting character who serves as the dedicated personal butler to Klaus Von Reinherz, the leader of the secret organization Libra. His full name includes the middle initial F, which stands for Franke. Gilbert is an older gentleman, easily recognized by his grey, wavy hair, his pale skin, and the bandages that cover nearly his entire body, leaving only his eyes, mouth, and hair visible. He typically wears a standard butler's uniform. His expression has been described as somewhat intimidating, but this contradicts his true nature as a kind and gentle person.
Gilbert comes from a background as a member of the von Reinherz family's corps of combat butlers, a position that speaks to the family's significant influence and resources. He is considered a legend even among that esteemed group. Following the Great Collapse, which resulted in the creation of Hellsalem's Lot, Gilbert relocated to the chaotic city to keep an eye on Klaus, effectively becoming an integral part of Libra. Within the organization, he is a crucial member who primarily handles the intelligence network, working quietly in the background to support his comrades. His loyalty to Klaus is absolute, and he is one of the people the Libra leader trusts most.
Gilbert's personality is one of calm composure and professionalism. Unlike the more bombastic members of Libra, he is low-key and reserved, often found quietly going about his duties, such as serving tea. He is known for being a warm and compassionate individual, though his stern facial features can sometimes give a different impression. Gilbert strongly believes in avoiding unnecessary conflict, especially in a dangerous place like Hellsalem's Lot. He prefers to stay several steps back and use strategy rather than direct aggression. This philosophy is born from the understanding that a direct approach in the city almost always leads to certain defeat. Despite his age and the occasional complaint about his old bones, he is an unwaveringly reliable presence who performs his duties with quiet efficiency, earning the respect of his fellow Libra members.
One of Gilbert's most notable abilities is his superhuman rate of regeneration. This power is not passive; it only activates when he sustains grave or fatal injuries, such as having his head cleaved in two. In these moments, he is able to rapidly heal and survive what would be certain death for anyone else, though the ability does not nullify the intense pain that accompanies such wounds. This power may explain the bandages he always wears, though it is mentioned he does not like to use it often, as he prefers his body the way it is. For combat, Gilbert does not rely solely on his regeneration. As a combat butler, he is a highly skilled fighter and strategist, capable of dispatching enemies with a cool and collected demeanor. He also operates a heavily modified car equipped with an arsenal of weaponry from Visceral Heavy Industry, including a powerful Plasma Cutter laser and Bethesda Firearms Death Caliber.50 machine gun turrets.
Gilbert's role in the story is most prominently highlighted during an event where a young butler sent to assist him, Philip Lenore, is kidnapped. Philip’s brain is extracted by a creature from the Beyond, and he is used as a hostage. In the ensuing crisis, Gilbert demonstrates his formidable capabilities, taking charge of the rescue mission. He proves that despite his age, he is fully capable of standing alongside the best of Libra. This event serves to showcase his hidden depths and combat prowess, leaving a lasting impression on Philip, who gains a new respect for Gilbert and the harsh realities of Hellsalem's Lot. At the end of the adventure, Gilbert offers Philip a place in Libra, but the younger butler declines. Throughout his appearances, Gilbert remains a steadfast anchor for Klaus and Libra, a quiet professional whose skills and loyalty are beyond question.
Gilbert comes from a background as a member of the von Reinherz family's corps of combat butlers, a position that speaks to the family's significant influence and resources. He is considered a legend even among that esteemed group. Following the Great Collapse, which resulted in the creation of Hellsalem's Lot, Gilbert relocated to the chaotic city to keep an eye on Klaus, effectively becoming an integral part of Libra. Within the organization, he is a crucial member who primarily handles the intelligence network, working quietly in the background to support his comrades. His loyalty to Klaus is absolute, and he is one of the people the Libra leader trusts most.
Gilbert's personality is one of calm composure and professionalism. Unlike the more bombastic members of Libra, he is low-key and reserved, often found quietly going about his duties, such as serving tea. He is known for being a warm and compassionate individual, though his stern facial features can sometimes give a different impression. Gilbert strongly believes in avoiding unnecessary conflict, especially in a dangerous place like Hellsalem's Lot. He prefers to stay several steps back and use strategy rather than direct aggression. This philosophy is born from the understanding that a direct approach in the city almost always leads to certain defeat. Despite his age and the occasional complaint about his old bones, he is an unwaveringly reliable presence who performs his duties with quiet efficiency, earning the respect of his fellow Libra members.
One of Gilbert's most notable abilities is his superhuman rate of regeneration. This power is not passive; it only activates when he sustains grave or fatal injuries, such as having his head cleaved in two. In these moments, he is able to rapidly heal and survive what would be certain death for anyone else, though the ability does not nullify the intense pain that accompanies such wounds. This power may explain the bandages he always wears, though it is mentioned he does not like to use it often, as he prefers his body the way it is. For combat, Gilbert does not rely solely on his regeneration. As a combat butler, he is a highly skilled fighter and strategist, capable of dispatching enemies with a cool and collected demeanor. He also operates a heavily modified car equipped with an arsenal of weaponry from Visceral Heavy Industry, including a powerful Plasma Cutter laser and Bethesda Firearms Death Caliber.50 machine gun turrets.
Gilbert's role in the story is most prominently highlighted during an event where a young butler sent to assist him, Philip Lenore, is kidnapped. Philip’s brain is extracted by a creature from the Beyond, and he is used as a hostage. In the ensuing crisis, Gilbert demonstrates his formidable capabilities, taking charge of the rescue mission. He proves that despite his age, he is fully capable of standing alongside the best of Libra. This event serves to showcase his hidden depths and combat prowess, leaving a lasting impression on Philip, who gains a new respect for Gilbert and the harsh realities of Hellsalem's Lot. At the end of the adventure, Gilbert offers Philip a place in Libra, but the younger butler declines. Throughout his appearances, Gilbert remains a steadfast anchor for Klaus and Libra, a quiet professional whose skills and loyalty are beyond question.