One of the few dragonborn in all of Aurelia—and even rarer still to see one outside their ancient, hidden enclaves—Professor Marcellus Vaerthrax cuts an imposing and mysterious figure among the faculty of the University of Scholara. With crimson scales that shimmer like dying embers and eyes that glow faintly in the dark, he is a man (or perhaps a being) of calculated movements and quiet intensity. Marcellus teaches Advanced Arcane Theory and Veil Magic, though most students whisper that he spends more time slipping through shadows than lecturing behind a podium.

Marcellus arrived in Scholara nearly two decades ago under curious circumstances. Rumors swirl of a deadly fire in the far southwest, a destroyed research conclave, and a dragon’s name burned into a ruined tower—but Marcellus never speaks of his past, and no official records predate his arrival. He was granted tenure quickly, thanks to a stunning understanding of magical veils, illusion, and planar theory—knowledge that even the university's most seasoned wizards couldn't replicate.

Despite his reclusive nature, there is one person who holds sway over him: Naxene DuLac. From the moment she arrived in Scholara, Marcellus became captivated by her brilliance and ambition. While others saw manipulation and arrogance, he saw a rising star—one he would gladly follow into darkness if it meant earning her favor. Though he hides it well, his infatuation has grown into obsession. He has quietly aided Naxene's rise to power, tampering with arcane wards, shifting schedules, and even undermining Amara Faithkeeper's position from the shadows.

Now, with whispers of forbidden books, missing people, and a veil thinning between worlds, Marcellus is walking an ever-thinner line. Though he believes he’s doing everything out of love, his actions are becoming increasingly dangerous—and he may not realize just how far Naxene is willing to use him. If exposed, he could become a powerful enemy… or a conflicted ally teetering on the edge of redemption.