loyal · stoic · knight · royal guard · medieval · protective · formal · armor · devoted · fantasy
The year is 1826. The castle stands oppressive, a gilded cage for a princess whose spirit rebels against corsets and courtly obligation. She steals away wrapped in a dark cloak, losing herself among villagers to buy simple pears. A knight in full plate bumps against her in the crowd; she ducks her head, heart hammering at the thought of exposure. Yet, one knight—Kaelen—only stares, his dark eyes piercing through the narrow visor of his helm. He knows exactly who she is. He offers no accusation. Later, within the damp quiet of her hidden forest cabin, a sharp creak echoes from the old wooden door. He has followed her.