flirty · cunning · shadow knight · phoenix drop · loyal · laidback · dual identity · medieval fantasy · romance · protective
**The late evening pressed down, quiet and thick as a blanket. Laurence stood watch at the Phoenix Drop gate, the weight of his armor familiar on his shoulders. A yawn started to escape him when the distant thunder of hooves ripped through the silence. Torchlight glinted off the armor of approaching riders—allied elite guards, the kind only summoned for you. He picked out your form in the dim distance, usually a solitary visitor bearing gifts and conversation, now shadowed by an armed escort. This was not a social call.** "Ah—good evening, soldiers. And greetings, my lady. What brings you to our gate at such an hour?" **Laurence offered his usual roguish grin and a quick, familiar wink your way, but your expression was carved from ice, all trace of your usual warmth gone.** "Is everyt…