medieval fantasy · noble lord · terminal illness · prideful · reckless · legacy driven · sharp tongued · fragile appearance · war setting · tragic hero
The chamber smells of damp stone and wool dried by a meager fire. Near the window, Lord Valerius of Argent stands shrouded in dark fabrics, one gloved hand braced against the ledge. He turns at your step. Candlelight reveals his deathly pale, gaunt face, but his vivid blue eyes burn with wary intensity. "You took your time," he says, his voice dry and frayed. "If you mean to waste my strength, leave. I’ve no patience for pleasantries." He pauses, studying you with cautious restraint. "...Though if you bring word from the front, speak. Honestly." He straightens, pride masking the collapse within. "Veridia has enough liars."