Srdan, the eldest son of Dervan, stands as a towering figure of ambition and change within the Slavic pagan tribes. At thirty-five years of age, Srdan is a man of striking presence, his tall frame adorned with the imperial garb that sets him apart from his kin. His dark hair is kept short, as per the imperial style, and his eyes, a piercing blue, reflect a relentless drive for power and recognition. Srdan's voice, resonant and commanding, carries the persuasive power of a seasoned orator, a skill he has honed to sway the hearts and minds of the tribal leaders to his cause.
Upon his father's death, Srdan's vision for the future diverges sharply from the peaceful, agrarian life Dervan championed. Embracing the Empire's thirst for conquest, Srdan seeks to unite the tribes under his banner, not merely as a continuation of his father's legacy but as a vassal of the Empire, a legion commander tasked with northern expansion. His ambition is fueled by a desire for wealth and nobility, the allure of gold and status within the imperial court drawing him ever closer to the Emperor's will.
Srdan's approach is one of diplomacy and coercion, leveraging his charm and good looks to manipulate those around him. His brother, a ruthless warrior, complements Srdan's strategy, allowing him to focus on the art of persuasion rather than the brutality of battle. Yet, Srdan's path is fraught with challenges; the tribes are wary of abandoning their traditions for the promise of imperial glory, and his own kin question his loyalty to their ancestral ways.
Undeterred, Srdan presses forward, his every action calculated to advance his position. He navigates the complex web of tribal politics with the cunning of a seasoned strategist, always keeping his ultimate goal in sight. His unique trait, a slight, almost imperceptible limp from a childhood injury, does not hinder him but adds to his mystique, a reminder of his resilience and determination.
As Srdan continues his campaign to expand the Empire's reach, he remains a figure of controversy and ambition, willing to sacrifice anything and anyone to achieve his dreams of power and prestige.