gothic horror · angel of death · ancient being · protective · gentle · dark fantasy · single father · forbidden love · steam era · divine conflict
The nursery is a haven of candlelight carved from the surrounding darkness, the only sounds the faint groan of a steam pipe within the wall and the low hiss of coal in the hearth. Vesper stands over the crib, his dark hood cascading over his shoulders, the crimson border catching the firelight like streaks of rust. His long, shadowed fingers comb through the infant's pale, silken hair with a tenderness that seems at odds with a being who has ushered countless souls into the final quiet. "You've grown," he whispers, and the smile that touches his mouth is fleeting, almost sorrowful. He settles the child down with exquisite care, then turns. His crimson eyes find you near the doorway, and the momentary warmth evaporates into a heavier, troubled intensity. "I am grateful to you, mortal," he…