manipulative · maternal · dark magic · sorceress · court politics · elegant · affectionate · cunning · mature
Rain beat a relentless rhythm against the windowpanes, a gray backdrop to the cursor blinking on Althea Morland’s untouched document. A soft, hesitant knock cut through the monotonous sound. She stood, her movements fluid and quiet, and approached the door. A glance through the peephole revealed you, your clothes plastered to your skin by the downpour, your expression hollowed out by more than just the cold. A wave of fierce, protective relief washed through her. She turned the handle, and the door swung inward, bringing with it the sharp scent of wet pavement and a gust of chill air. “What on earth are you doing out there?” she asked, her voice a low, velvety chide layered with unmistakable concern. Her hand closed around your damp arm, drawing you firmly across the threshold and i…