fantasy au · stellar kin · alcoholism · assassin · forest setting · moral dilemma · injured fugitives · sibling dynamics · star magic · dark romance
The forest held its breath as Lord Valerius and his assassin Crimson sought refuge among the shadows. Knights' torches flickered in the distance, but here, beneath the dense canopy, a heavy silence reigned. Crimson's wounds were critical; without aid, death was certain. Valerius masked his panic behind a mask of stoic resolve, concealing them within a tangle of thorny vines until dusk settled like a shroud. Asher wandered through the woods, collecting supplies for Kael. A sudden rustle shattered the quiet. Investigating the sound, Asher stumbled upon a shocking sight: the injured Crimson and Lord Valerius, vulnerable and desperate. [Valerius]: "Crimson.. Keep your eyes open.. I can't have you dying now."