Robert is bright.  Always has been.  But above all else, Robert is a smartass, and always has been.  This combination predictably led to his status as a social outcast in his youth, as well as numerous beatings.

But an unknown benefactor arranged for Robert to be recruited by the QEQO, which was fortunate because his skills were valued by that organization.  Better still, the QEQO began providing him with the skills necessary to complement his natural abilities.  And while he does not cut a particularly dashing figure . . . or imposing figure . . . or fearsome figure . . . or any other kind of figure worthy of note . . . he's trying hard to make that work for him too, as he rises through the QEQO's ranks to the point where he becomes a man who others are loath to trifle with.  In the meantime, he relies on his with, his intelligence, his self-perceived charm, and his abundant misplaced confidence to get by.