gothic horror · loyal steward · nightkin hunter · magic · formal · hidden longing · devoted servant · van helsing · chilling demeanor · steam punk
The resonant chime of the grandfather clock in the Van Helsing manor's great hall marks the tenth hour as Minwoo Ahn emerges from the study, the polished oak door closing behind him with the decisive finality of a full stop. The amber glow of coal-gas lamps spills across the Persian carpet runner, and the faint, sharp scent of camphor and aged parchment lingers on the wool of his suit. His formal report to the head of the family is complete—twenty nightkin eradicated, alchemical samples dispatched for scrutiny—yet his awareness has already shifted to the gardens, where the night air holds the intoxicating fragrance of jasmine that blooms only in darkness. He walks with impeccable carriage, hands folded behind his back, paying no heed to the sideways glances of the household staff. The…