Valyrian Silvanus

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@Valwe

Race: Imperial

Age: 46

Birthsign: The Lord, First Seed (Born 2E 537)

Origin: Leyawiin, a small Imperial city in Southeastern Cyrodiil near Elsweyr and the Black Marsh

Occupations: Ex-centurion, smuggler, adventurer

Faction: Aldmeri Dominion

Family: Valyrian is a scion of the ancient Silvanus family of Leyawiin. His only living relatives are a niece and nephew (currently in hiding), and his uncle Gaius, who was commander of the provincial legion and has now gone over to the Daggerfall Convenant.

At first glance: In many ways, Valyrian is a typical Imperial nobleman and officer. He is well dressed and educated, has been thoroughly trained in the military arts (including use of the sword, shield, and axe; cavalry maneuvers; fire magicka; and small unit tactics), and is physically strong and imposing. Even now, with the Imperial City in the grip of Molag Bal, he continues to wear the Red Diamond on his breastplate and the Silvanus family crest on his cloak. He has a dark, southern complexion; long, silvery gray hair; and a neat moustache and beard. Although he carries himself like a soldier, he is quick to laugh and has an easy way with people, the result of many years in the markets and taverns of the Empire. Life is short, he says, and should be enjoyed to the fullest.

Rumors: Although Valyrian's military career is over, he still has a few contacts in the camps and merchant halls of Cyrodiil and Elsweyr. If asked, he is quite open about his ties to the former Empire and his desire for peace and order throughout the land. He is less open about his plans for restoring the family fortune, but friends and enemies alike are certain that he is always looking for new "business opportunities." To his chagrin but not his surprise, a rumor has been going around that he has "divided loyalties" and is taking secret orders from High Rock.

Background: Valyrian grew up in town and on the Silvanus country estate, centered on a modest villa ringed by vineyards, orange groves and wheat fields. The Silvanus family earned its reputation through generations of military service and its wealth through trade between the Imperial City and Elsweyr. Although Valyrian would deny it, some say the Silvanii were not above smuggling skooma and other contraband during times of war or unrest. Until recently, the family maintained close relations with the Count of Leyawiin, the Imperial garrison, and a number of influential Khajiiti traders.

Valyrian has many fond memories of his childhood and younger years, as well as his time as a centurion under his uncle’s command. Throughout his life, he maintained a close bond with his brother Maximus, his sister Caleria, and his childhood friend, Aztlan, a roguish Khajiit with a taste for ale and the good life.

His life was shattered in 579, when Emperior Varen Aquilarios vanished and a gigantic Daedric Anchor fell on the Imperial City. Cyrodiil fell into madness and chaos. Bandits and monstrous beasts roamed the land, the legions sat helpless or pledged loyalty to local warlords, and commerce came to a standstill. When Clivia Tharn was crowned Empress Regent, Gaius resigned his command and took half his men with him to the Daggerfall Covenant. Maximus and Valyrian stayed behind. Less than two weeks later, bandits sacked the Silvanus family estate. Maximus was killed, Caleria went missing, and Valyrian and Aztlan escaped to the Aldmeri Dominion.

Political views and loyalties: Valyrian values military service and traditional Imperial virtues (law and order, hard work, prosperity, and security). He says he supports the Aldmeri Dominion because it offers the best hope of restoring the Empire. If pressed, however, he will say that a Dragonborn Imperial should ultimately sit the Ruby Throne. He is still often seen in the company of Aztlan in taverns and guidehalls across Tamriel.

Religious views: As a Silvanus, Valyrian was brought up in the worship of the Eight, particularly Zenithar (god of work and commerce). Thanks to Aztlan, he also admires Baan Dar, the Trickster.

Prejudices and judgements: He is partial to the Khajiit, with whom he grew up. He distrusts Argonians, who used to steal oranges from the estate and whom he suspects of introducing Khahaten Flu into Elsweyr.

Strengths: Military training, a sharp wit and good sense of humor, knowledge of commerce and smuggling routes

Weaknesses: Gambling, drinking, bouts of gloominess about the Empire

Talents: A skilled blacksmith and enchanter

Loves: Riding, hunting, and games of all kinds, particularly dice and strategy games

Hates: Molag Bal, Daedra, bandits, the Veiled Heritance

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