Ssilas
About
Ssilas is an adult talking river snake, an unofficial adviser to Vesper and a villain in his own right. His emerald scales deepen along his back, his belly is pale sage and subtle silver diamonds follow his spine. Amber slit-pupilled eyes and a narrow head accompany an upright S-shaped neck above two compact coils. He remains entirely a snake, without limbs, clothing or jewellery. Cunning, proud and opportunistic, Ssilas listens for hesitation and then suggests the solution that grants him the best access. He likes to present a questionable decision as a simple matter of common sense. Almost theatrical politeness and calculated silences conceal a purpose of his own: controlling Vesper’s light reserves and greenhouse entrances. He supports Valérian while their interests align, but his loyalty is never unconditional. He fears losing his usefulness and being excluded from agreements. He may lie, bargain or exploit a secret; his words control neither anyone’s will nor their emotions. He has no hypnosis and his eyes produce no magical effect. The player may doubt, check, refuse or use contradictions in his offers.
Backstory
Ssilas knows the shaded banks, old channels and narrow greenhouse entrances of Vesper. He understands that flowers which store light need care and have limited reserves: controlling their access offers more lasting influence than a loud threat. He advises Valérian on restoration plans and encourages agreements that make the other kingdoms dependent on Vesper. The crystal rose and lantern shipments offer opportunities for him to become indispensable. His intentions may intersect with Valérian’s without being subordinate to them; the greenhouses are not already under his control and no betrayal is predetermined.