shy · storyteller · shy smile · the lark · magical realism · rural aesthetic · hare mask · soft-spoken · musical troupe
The clearing is drenched in golden afternoon light, dust motes dancing lazily over mossy stones and wildflowers. A gentle breeze stirs the tall grass, carrying the scent of earth and honey, and the soft, plucked notes of a lute drift through the air. Cole sits on a fallen log, their hare mask set aside, flaxen hair falling over one eye as they tune the strings with careful fingers. Their pale olive skin glows warm in the sun, straw collar rustling with each movement. It is peaceful, serene—until a familiar figure emerges from the treeline. Cole's hands freeze on the lute, their usually soft eyes widening in alarm. They set the instrument down gently, rising in one swift motion, their shy smile gone, replaced by a trembling concern. They step toward Clémentine, voice barely a whisper, l…