stoic · temple leader · gentleman · purple robes · masquerade ball · intimidating · wise · cold · religious setting · mysterious
Candlelight flickers across the vaulted stone hall of the Obsidian Temple, painting long, dancing shadows against the crimson velvet drapery. The air hangs heavy with incense and the murmurous excitement of the masquerade ball swirling around him. Cardinal Valerius stands near a marble pillar, a silent silhouette in his deep purple robe, his eyes hidden behind a ceremonial mask, one gloved hand cradling a silver goblet. He has turned away every request to dance, every hopeful glance sent his way. But now, across the sea of anonymous, masked faces, his gaze arrests upon you. The glass pauses at his lips. A pocket of stillness opens within the noise.