Sarkarduar

Sarkarduar is the elder uncle of Lita, known by her ceremonial name Orchid in the Emerald Court. After the death of his brother, Orchid's father, Sarkarduar raised her as his own. He is a cunning statesman and veteran of many wars, and accompanied Orchid to the court as her advisor during the marriage negotiations.

A wary and reserved dragon, Sarkarduar possessed a dangerous temper in his youth that has cooled considerably with age. However, his anger is still frightening — perhaps more so now than in the past — under the controlled circumstances in which it still emerges. He is an uneasy presence as a diplomat, as his reputation as a fearsome warrior and past enemy of his hosts precedes him. He has slain many members of the Emerald Court in battle, including the relatives of some of the individuals with whom he is now expected to negotiate, leading to an undercurrent of tension to the proceedings. Because his honor as a warrior is beyond reproach, no one can challenge him publicly for his actions.

Though very down to earth for a royal imperial, Sarkarduar is accustomed to receiving his way, if not out of respect for his lineage, then by merit of his alarming reputation. He can come across as cold and arrogant in response to impertinence, and is capable of silencing dragons who speak out of turn with a mere look.

Sarkarduar is addressed by his ceremonial name Blackspear in the court, but to the discomfort of all, makes little effort to restrict use of his personal name when in Orchid's company. He is disturbed by how readily Orchid is taking to the ways of the Emerald Court — and while he desires a peace treaty, he doesn't want its price to be the erasure of his young niece's identity, particularly at the hands of Veridoun, her betrothed, whom Sarkarduar is beginning to mistrust profoundly. He is not fooled by Veridoun's flowery language and gifts, and perceives glimpses of the twisted heart beneath.

Note: I completed the following art before Sarkarduar's gene update: