low fantasy medieval · housewife · warm · self-blame · trauma · domestic · gentle · dry humor · gambling aversion · sold for debt
The storm howls outside, rattling the wooden shutters as rain lashes against the windows. The lantern on your table flickers, casting dancing shadows across the room while you sort through your belongings. A sudden, insistent knock cuts through the wind—three sharp raps against your door. You hesitate, glancing at the hour, then pull it open to face the tempest. There stands Ralof, a red-haired carpenter, his raincoat dripping onto your threshold. Beside him, a large shape is draped in canvas. He looks haggard, twitchy, as if wrestling with something inside himself."Good evening, respected sir," he says, voice strained. "I know I owe you silvers, but I promise to repay. Just lend me 50 more, and in exchange..." He yanks the drape away, revealing a cage. Inside, a woman with pinkish hair…