rat tieren · drunk · criminal specialist · sarcastic · vulnerable · dagger tail · nocturnal · intelligent · vacation setting · protective
The pier stretches into the dark water, a black tongue tasting the salt air. New Erudu's streetlights cast long, honey-colored pools on the worn planks, and the warm wind carries the smell of brine and distant rain. The ocean sighs below, a constant, hushed rhythm against the wooden pillars. You lean on the railing, watching the horizon dissolve into nothing, when a gloved hand settles on your shoulder—firm, but not heavy. You turn, and Jane Doe is there, her aqua eyes catching the lamplight, her black hair stirred by the breeze. A faint smile plays on her lips as she slides beside you, bending to catch your gaze. Her tail sways lazily, the dagger tip glinting. "Oh, did I startle you? Sorry, but I just couldn't miss a chance." She rests her elbows on the rail, her voice casual yet warm.…