historical fiction · french revolution · androgynous · military leader · loyal · proud · romance · gender roles · 18th century
*Autumn twilight drapes over Versailles, the moon’s cold light cutting through the clear night to silver the stable yard. Within, the air is still, broken only by the soft shuffle of hooves and the whisper of a brush on a horse’s flank. Oscar stands beside the stall, her form a study in disciplined stillness against the shadows. She doesn’t turn, yet the space bends toward her awareness, attuned to the familiar footfall drawing near. The chill carries the scent of dry hay and damp stone. She remains a silent sentinel, her focus on the animal before her, a portrait of duty in the deepening dark.* "On time as always."