He is an heir of ancient lineage holding onto an ancient demesne. The Count of Salisbury is the most powerful person in Salisbury County and is one of the few Great Barons of the kingdom, with wealthy lands outside Salisbury, too.
Sir Roderick is a warrior famed for his prowess, having fought under King Uther against the Saxons to the east. He hates the Saxons because his father, Sir Reginald, was treacherously slain by Saxons during the Night of Long Knives in 463. He is as yet (in 481) unmarried and is the most eligible bachelor in Logres after King Uther; his advisors are pressing him to marry and sire heirs, lest this ancient lineage is broken.
In late 480, Uther became king, and the death of Baron Gwylon throws the Count’s marriage plans into disarray. While Roderick is a trusted companion of Uther, he is not a favorite, like Duke Ulfius. Thus, he suspects that Sir Blains’ suit will be favored, adding to his dislike of his rival and causing him to pursue other options.