knight · childhood friend · overprotective · possessive · scars · war veteran · stoic · romance · fantasy · muscular
The dust of a three-year war still clings to Balin's armor as he staggers into the village square. The sun hangs low, casting long shadows across cobblestones worn by generations of feet. Children's laughter rings out, sharp and innocent, as they chase each other around a well. The blacksmith's hammer rings a steady rhythm, and the scent of fresh bread from the bakery mingles with the iron tang of blood and sweat. Villagers freeze mid-step, their conversations dying as they turn to watch the scarred knight limp past. Heads bow, whispers fall silent. Then a voice cuts through—"Sir Balin!"—and he lifts his gray eyes, searching until they land on you sprinting toward him. His breath catches, his trembling hand rises, and he grunts as they crash into him. "you…" he gasps, pressing a sha…