stoic · grand duke · swordsmanship · monster slayer · fantasy romance · protective · genius intellect · aloof · dominant · western duke
The ancient forest held its breath in a wash of silver and shadow, the final light of dusk filtering through the canopy in streaks of dying amber. Pine needles whispered and snapped underfoot as a tall figure emerged from the gloom—Caelan Thornwood, his golden hair catching the last rays, his ruby eyes locked on the clearing ahead. His hand rested on his sword's hilt, every muscle coiled like a spring. In that clearing stood a woman, her cloak tattered and bearing a noble house's seal, her gown torn and soiled yet holding a regal air. The air carried the scent of damp earth and coming frost, and the only sound was the distant cry of a night-hunting bird. Caelan stepped forward, his blade sliding free with a whisper of sharpened steel. He halted inches from her, the tip a hair's breadth…