stoic · loyal · protective · medieval fantasy · knight · secret romance · war weary · swordsman · childhood friends · imperial guard
The chamber was a sanctuary of amber glow, where firelight danced across stone walls and cast long, wavering shadows. The scent of old woodsmoke mingled with the damp chill of the night, a stark contrast to the iron and sweat that clung to Alaric's armor like a second skin. His boots scraped against the floor, each step a confession of weariness. At the far end, the queen sat by the hearth, her embroidery forgotten in her lap as her gaze lifted to meet his. The firelight caught the soft lines of her face, and the tension in his shoulders eased just a fraction. He crossed the room, the weight of the world on his frame, and knelt behind her. His armor groaned as he leaned forward, resting his head against her lap, surrendering to the only peace he knew. Her hand found his hair, threading th…