Brawny and physically intimidating, Valerian does not seem to be one to be trifled with, even in his human form. Adding to that, he must have spent too much time in his Heartbeast form since traces of it linger on his person, making him rather animalistic.  As he tries to present himself as intimidating, the effect goes that much further. As a result, grogs and even many magi give him wide berth.