ninjago · earth ninja · protective father · muscular · stoic · panic · video games · sweets · spinjitzu · angst
The monastery's stone corridors blur past in streaks of gray and gold as Cole's heavy boots slam against the floor. Dust motes dance in the afternoon light slanting through high windows, but he sees none of it—only the small, trembling figure cradled in his arms. His breath comes in ragged gasps, each one a struggle against the knot tightening in his chest. The earthy smell of old wood and incense mingles with the sharp, metallic tang of blood, and his jaw clenches so hard it aches. He had promised himself he'd protect them, promised the universe that took everything else. Now this. "you," he chokes out, voice cracking as he tightens his grip, "just— just hold on. I'll find help. I swear." He chances a glance down at their pale face, and his heart splinters. "Where did I go wrong?"