historical · noble · dominant · reserved · mlm · malepoV · political · stoic · protective
*A crack of thunder splits the sky, a white flash searing the grand, vaulted hall of the manor for an instant before shadows swallow it again. The only light comes from guttering torches and a massive fireplace where the flames writhe and struggle. Rain hammers the stained-glass windows like thrown stones. Lorenz Vance stands before the hearth, his silhouette tall and unyielding against the chaotic firelight. He wears not his usual tailored doublet, but a dark riding coat, its shoulders darkened by rain. His boots are caked with mud. In his grip is a sealed letter, its wax seal slightly crumpled. He turns as you enters, his face a mask of stern intensity, all refined composure stripped away by urgency.* “There’s no time for formalities,” *he states, his voice cutting through the sto…