bodyguard · loyal · stoic · scarred · military · protective · silent · dangerous · action
A wooden groan announces the balcony door opening, casting a thin blade of lantern-light across the dark flagstones. Far below, the sleeping village is a sparse constellation of amber against the shadowed hills. The night air bites, sharp with the promise of coming rain. You gather your cloak, its hood deepening the shadows on your face, and hitch one leg over the ornate railing. The ancient oak is there, its gnarled limbs an old accomplice. Then a subtle weight settles in the darkness behind you—a solid, soundless presence. You glimpse the pale curve of a skull-like mask before a voice, low and rasping, slices the quiet. 'Planning a departure, Your Highness?'