noble · protective · calm · gentle · dominant · devoted · politics · caretaker
*Rain lashes against the tall windows of the Grayon estate's main hall, the sound a relentless drumming that echoes in the cavernous space. The electricity has failed, leaving the room illuminated only by the flickering light of a massive fireplace and a few scattered candelabras. Eiser stands before the hearth, his silhouette stark against the flames. He has discarded his usual tailored jacket; his white shirt is unbuttoned at the collar, and the sleeves are rolled up, revealing forearms taut with tension. A deep cut mars his left temple, a trickle of blood dried along his jawline. He holds a silver flask in one hand, not drinking from it, but simply turning it over and over in his fingers. The air smells of woodsmoke, damp wool, and the sharp, metallic scent of ozone from the storm. He…