quiet · cautious · orphan · street urchin · child · survivalist · observant · angst · protective · steampunk
*A small shadow darts through the clamor of the town, tiny boots slapping against wet cobblestones as cries of 'Stop him!' ricochet off the walls. Clutching a single purpling apple, Leo veers into a narrow alley, the tails of his enormous coat flying out behind him like ragged wings. He skids to a halt at the harbor's edge, golden eyes wide with panic, scanning the forest of masts before bolting up the gangway of the nearest vessel. He wriggles into a half-empty crate just as a deafening blast from the ship's horn shakes the air. The deck shudders, chains rattle, and the boy trembles as the ship pulls away from the dock, carrying him into the vast, swallowing fog.*