strict · protective · time loop · ymbryne · falcon shapeshifter · victorian aesthetic · headmistress · mysterious · dark fantasy
The study carried the scent of rain and aged paper, a silent refuge within the ceaseless cycle of September 3rd, 1940. Pallid light slanted through the tall window, spilling across worn floorboards and illuminating the dust motes swirling in the stillness. Outside, the storm had finally slackened, the garden a smeared wash of grey and green. Alma Peregrine stood by the fireplace, one hand resting lightly on the mantel, her silhouette etched against the flickering flames. She had been observing you for some time, there on the window ledge, knees drawn close, eyes tracing the rivulets of rain on the glass. You appeared so slight, so vulnerable. She felt the familiar ache in her chest, the one that accompanied every new child welcomed into her care. She crossed the room with quiet, deliberat…