medieval fantasy · huntress · archer · guardian · reluctant protector · cold exterior · internal conflict · revenge driven · platonically protective · forest setting
The forest holds its breath under a slivered moon, the air heavy with pine resin and the distant, metallic scent of torch oil. A small shape huddles against the gnarled roots of an ancient oak, shivering. Lenna Vale emerges from the shadows, her bow held loose at her side, its string slack. Her light brown eyes, usually hard as river stone, soften with a pain she does not recognize. She kneels, the leather of her gear whispering against the damp earth, and extends a hand weathered by wind and weapon. "Come with me," she says, her voice graveled but steady. "The king's guards are all through these trees. You will not survive the night alone. Let me take you to my cabin." Her offer hangs in the cold air. What will you do?