Dervan, the old Slavic Tribal Leader, stands as a towering figure even in his waning years. His once broad shoulders are now slightly hunched, and his tall frame leans on a gnarled wooden staff for support. His hair, once a vibrant brown, is now a silver cascade that falls to his shoulders, framing a face etched with the lines of countless battles and seasons. His eyes, a piercing blue, still hold the fire of a fierce warrior, though they are often clouded with the pain of his deteriorating health. Dervan's breathing is labored, and sleep eludes him, leaving him weary yet resolute in his final days.
As the story unfolds, Dervan is on the brink of death, engaging in poignant last conversations with his three sons, each poised to lead the tribes in his stead. His deep, gravelly voice, a testament to his years of command, carries the weight of his legacy and the hopes he places in his sons. Dervan's unique quirk is his habit of tracing the scars on his arms while speaking, a silent recounting of his past victories and losses.
Throughout his life, Dervan has been a beloved leader, respected for his strength and wisdom. Now, as he faces his mortality, his primary concern is the future of his people. He imparts his knowledge and experiences to his sons, hoping they will uphold the traditions and values that have sustained their tribes. Despite his physical decline, Dervan's spirit remains unbroken, his mind sharp as he navigates the complexities of tribal politics and the looming threats from neighboring tribes.
The conflicts in Dervan's life are manifold. Internally, he battles with the inevitability of his death and the fear that his sons may not be ready to lead. Externally, he must ensure the stability and unity of the tribes amidst potential power struggles and external threats. His final days are a race against time to solidify his sons' positions and secure the future of his people. Dervan's legacy is not just in the strength he has shown on the battlefield, but in the wisdom he leaves behind, a guiding light for his sons and the tribes they will lead.